JAMES   F.   RAYMOND. 


The  Old 
Mountain  Hermit 

By 

James  F.  Raymond 


New  York: 

Broadway   Publishing 
Company 


Copyrighted,     1904, 

BY 
JAMES     F.     RAYMOND. 

All    Rights    Reserved. 


CONTENTS. 


PAGE 

CHAPTER    I. 
Joe  and  the  Colonel 1 

CHAPTER    II. 
Yosoph    Repays    His    Master 7 


CHAPTER   III. 
Yoseph's    Wonderful    Discovery 12 

CHAPTER   IV. 

Colonel  Ashburton'a  Return 20 

CHAPTER    V. 
A   Strange   Being 25 

CHAPTER   VI. 
Homeward    Bound 32 

CHAPTER  VII. 
Paradise    35 

CHAPTER  VIII. 
Fashioning  the  Woman 39 

CHAPTER   IX. 

Paradise  in  Its  Full  Meaning 43 

CHAPTER    X. 

Interview    between    the    Maiden    and    the    Serpent 

Continued    52 

CHAPTER    XL 

The  Penalty  of  Disobedience. 56 


vi  CONTENTS. 

PAGE 

CHAPTER  XII. 
The  Beasts  Take  Their  Departure 65 

CHAPTER    XIII. 
Looking   for  a   New   Home 75 

CHAPTER  XIV. 
The    Marriage 80 

CHAPTER   XV. 

Interview  between  the  Master  and  Aristides 87 

CHAPTER  XVI. 

The  Deluge,  as  Told  by  the  Histriographer,  Jubal.     92 

CHAPTER  XVII. 
The    Ark's    Living    Freight 96 

CHAPTER  XVIII. 
Disembarking    from    the    Ark 99 

CHAPTER    XIX. 

Consultation  Relative  to  a  Tower 105 

CHAPTER    XX. 
Commencement  of  the  Tower 109 

CHAPTER    XXI. 
Confusion    of    Tongues 112 

CHAPTER   XXII. 
Leave  of  Absence  for  the  Colonel 121 

CHAPTER  XXIII. 
The   Outward   Bound  Voyage 124 

CHAPTER  XXIV. 
Exploration    128 

CHAPTER    XXV. 

Startling    Revelations 131 


CONTENTS.  vii 

PAGE 

CHAPTER  XXVI. 

The  Catastrophe 135 

CHAPTER    XXVII. 
Returning  to  England 141 

CHAPTER    XXVIII. 
Forthcoming  Events 146 

CHAPTER  XXIX. 
Doomed    149 

CHAPTER   XXX. 
The    Shipwreck 154 

CHAPTER    XXXI. 
Rescued    161 

CHAPTER    XXXII. 
Startling   Disclosures 171 

CHAPTER    XXXIII. 
A    Strange    People 173 

CHAPTER    XXXIV. 

"Coming  Events  Cast  Their  Shadows  Before" 180 

CHAPTER   XXXV. 

Trouble    Ahead 186 

CHAPTER   XXXVI. 
In  a  Quandary 191 

CHAPTER    XXXVII. 
Tana warga    Dethroned 197 

CHAPTER   XXXVIII. 
The  Newly  Chosen  King 203 

CHAPTER    XXXIX. 

Seated  in  High  Places 212 


viii  CONTEXTS. 

PAGE 

CHAPTER   XL. 
My    Wits   Still   at   Loggerheads 220 

CHAPTER    XLI. 
Return  to  the  Capitol  and  Its  Result 227 

CHAPTER    XLI  I. 
Looking  into  Matters 233 

CHAPTER    XLIII. 
I    Make   a    Speech ...  236 

CHAPTER   XLIV. 
The   Captain   Pays  Me  a   Visit 246 

CHAPTER    XLV. 
After  Three  Years 256 

CHAPTER   XLYI. 
I  Nearly  Lose  My  Senses 258 

CHAPTER    XLTII. 
Breakfast     273 

CHAPTER   XLVIII. 
The    Journey 277 

CHAPTER   XLIX. 
My  Fate  Sealed 281 

CHAPTER    L. 
The  End  of  the  Journey 285 

CHAPTER    LI. 
War  of  the  Giants 288 

CHAPTER  LII. 
In   Close    Quarters 295 

CHAPTER    LIII. 

A  Visit  to  Genevra..  .  297 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT 


INTRODUCTION. 


CHAPTER  I. 

JOE   AND   THE    COLONEL. 

Now  be  it  known  in  explanation,  relative  to  the 
relations  existing  between  Colonel  Ashburton  and 
myself, — for  we  were  friends  of  long  standing, — he 
an  officer  in  the  British  Army,  I  a  young  lawyer, 
peradventure  not  an  overly  good  one,  but,  be  this 
as  it  may,  had  taken  an  office,  nailed  over  the  outer 
door  a  sheet  of  tin  whereon  in  golden  letters  was 
inscribed,  "Joseph  Lindley,  attorney  and  counsellor 
at  law,"  resolved  to  do  or  die  in  the  at 
tempt.  Indeed,  I  had  no  alternative,  for  with  me 
it  was  one  of  those  cases  where  a  fellow  may  swim 
if  he  can,  sink  if  he  must.  At  the  same  time  I  felt 
fairly  well  assured  that  if  I  could  only  get  a  foot 
hold  the  chances  were  largely  in  favor  of  the  for 
mer.  But  before  setting  down  to  work — not  par 
ticularly  tedious  at  the  outset,  as  I  was  fain  to  be 
lieve,  for  I  had  not  only  a  name  to  make  but  clients 
to  secure  as  well,  the  one  a  necessary  adjunct  of  the 
other — I  thought  to  take  a  day  off,  journeying  to 
a  neighboring  town,  ostensibly  to  visit  relatives, 


2        THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT. 

really  to  see  a  young  lady  to  whom  I  hoped,  on 
this  especial  occasion,  to  become  engaged,  ulti 
mately  making  her  my  wife. 

Having  fulfilled  my  mission,  with  attending  re 
sults  all  that  I  could  have  anticipated,  or  even  de 
sired,  I  had,  on  this  morning,  returned  fully  pre 
pared  for  business,  but  finding  my  friend — the 
Colonel — the  hero  of  the  hour,  resolved  to  make 
him  a  visit,  the  interview  terminating  as  will  ere 
long  be  disclosed. 

Cigars  lighted,  an  injunction  relative  to  the  dis 
position  of  my  pedal  extremities  complied  with,  the 
Colonel,  after  a  few  moments'  reflection,  said : 

"You  will  doubtless  remember,  Joe,  that  away 
back  in  the  seventies  the  regiment  I  have  the  honor 
of  commanding  was  ordered  to  the  East  Indies  for 
the  purpose,  as  at  the  time  alleged,  of  looking  after 
an  outbreak  by  the  natives. 

"Arrangements  made,  arms,  ammunition  and 
provisions  on  board,  farewells  spoken — tearful  in 
many  instances,  for  the  boys  were  leaving  their 
sweethearts  behind — the  regiment  embarked,  soon 
thereafter  setting  sail.  The  voyage  was  tiresome 
in  the  extreme,  for  India,  Joe,  is  a  long  distance 
away. 

"Disembarking,  the  line  of  march  was  at  once 
taken  up,  but  on  reaching  the  point  in  question 
we  found  nothing  to  do,  the  insurrection,  or 
whatever  name  it  went  by,  having  been  put 
down,  and  as  the  natives  now  seemed  peaceably 
inclined,  the  little  army  was  established  both  for 
occupation  and  observation,  though  in  regard  to  the 
former  we  certainly  had  little  enough  to  occupy 
our  attention ;  as  to  the  latter,  our  observation  was 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT.        3 

limited  to  the  one  who  held  the  best  hand  in  ecarte, 
euchre  or  seven  up,  but  it  was  not  a  great  while  be 
fore  I  was  raised  to  the  rank  of  captain,  thence 
through  successive  gradations,  to  that  of  colonel. 
It  all  coming  about  from  a  little  matter  of  duty  by 
way  of  assisting  to  capture  a  lawless  gang  of  free 
booters,  a  holy  terror  to  the  whole  country  there 
about,  but  notwithstanding  this,  I  was  at  the  time 
inclined  to  the  belief  that  yellow  fever  was  a  nota 
ble  adjunct  of  my  rapid  promotion — providential 
dispensation,  some  were  wont  to  affirm. 

"But  to  return:  remaining  in  camp  for  a  con 
siderable  time,  nothing  out  of  the  common  run 
transpiring  to  engage  our  attention,  for  you  must 
know  that  soldier  life  is  monotonous  enough  at  the 
best,  the  days  constantly  becoming  more  wearisome, 
the  heat  increasing  in  like  ratio,  so,  in  order  to 
effect  some  change  having  a  more  agreeable  tend 
ency,  thereby  contributing  to  the  relief  of  my 
downcast  spirits,  I  proposed  to  my  servant,  Yoseph, 
that  we  take  a  day  off  for  hunting. 

"This  Yoseph  of  whom  I  speak,  was  not  only  a 
native,  but,  as  I  was  credibly  informed,  a  hunts 
man  of  no  mean  reputation,  and  withal  a  good 
companion,  for  he  had  been  the  recipient  of  for 
tune's  favors,  in  so  far  at  least  as  concerned  a  fair 
education,  and  was,  therefore,  much  better  in 
formed  than  most  of  those  in  similar  condition. 
Not  only  this,  but  he  was  said  to  have  a  tinge  of 
royal  blood  in  his  veins;  so,  taken  altogether,  as  a 
servant  and  companion,  he  was  all  that  could  be 
desired. 

"On  a  morning,  just  as  the  sun  was  climbing  up 
from  beyond  a  distant  mountain  range,  we  set  out, 


4         THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT. 

a  pack  of  well-trained  hounds  accompanying  us, 
yelping  their  delight  at  what  promised  a  fine  day's 
sport. 

"The  day  passed,  nothing  of  special  note  occur 
ring  to  mar  the  pleasure,  on  the  contrary,  every 
thing  in  its  favor,  for  we  not  only  found  game  in 
plenty,  but  filled  our  bags  to  repletion.  So  along 
toward  sunset  we  turned  back  on  the  homeward 
route. 

"The  day  had  been  uncommonly  fine,  the  heated 
atmosphere  tempered  by  the  sea  breeze,  along  the 
shore  of  which  our  course  mostly  led,  and  we  were,: 
as  might  be  expected,  in  exuberant  spirits. 

"About  five  o'clock,  while  riding  leisurely  along, 
the  hounds,  finding  nothing  better  to  do,  were  con 
stantly  running  their  noses  into  all  sorts  of  out-of- 
the-way  places  in  effort  to  stir  up  some  unsuspect 
ing  quarry,  when  all  of  a  sudden  there  arose  a  ter 
rible  commotion  mingled  with  cries  of  anger  and 
howls  of  pain,  the  tumult  evidently  arising  from  a 
densely  massed  thicket  on  our  left. 

"  'Aha !  my  brave  hounds,  you've  doubtless 
stirred  up  more  than  you  bargained  for,'  an  in 
ference  a  little  later  confirmed  by  the  appearance 
of  a  huge  Bengal  tiger,  who,  springing  from  out 
the  thicket,  fastened  himself  to  the  flank  of  Selim, 
thence  forward  in  the  direction  of  your  humble 
servant,  who,  no  less  frightened  than  his  trembling 
steed,  was  engaged  in  looking  for  a  place  of  safety 
but  with  little  prospect  of  success;  and,  Joe,  I  can 
truthfully  assert,  that  while  I  have  faced  many  a 
frowning  battery,  never  in  my  whole  life  did  I 
consider  myself  in  so  great  danger  as  at  that  pre 
cise  moment,  nor  do  I  think  it  detracting  from 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT.         5 

one's  courage  to  admit  that  I  was  never  before  so 
thoroughly  frightened. 

"At  this  juncture,  Yoseph,  cool  and  collected, 
as  was  his  usual  wont,  flung  himself  on  the  blood 
thirsty  beast,  receiving  in  return  a  crushed  arm; 
for  the  brute  without  so  much  'as  by  your  leave,' 
turned  on  his  aggressor  and  grasped  his  right  arm, 
and  the  life  of  my  devoted  friend  wouldn't  have 
been  worth  a  penny  dip  had  not  a  well-aimed  shot 
from  my  Winchester  laid  the  monster  lifeless  at 
Selinrs  feet. 

"I  now  found  myself  in  a  peculiarly  unwelcome 
predicament,  for  we  were  a  long  distance  from 
camp,  and  how  to  transport  my  dangerously 
wounded  companion  was  a  difficult  matter  to  de 
cide.  However,  on  the  principle  that  where  there 
is  a  will  the  way  can,  in  almost  every  instance,  be 
found,  I  adopted  the  latter  by  fixing  on  the  saddle 
a  pair  of  thick  woollen  blankets,  and  then  strapped 
Yoseph  to  the  saddle-bow;  for  you  see,  Joe,  the 
flow  of  blood  had  so  weakened  his  usually  strong 
frame  that  it  was  hard  to  maintain  an  upright 
position,  but,  notwithstanding  all  these  difficulties, 
midnight  saw  us  safely  in  camp,  Yoseph  placed  in 
care  of  a  surgeon,  while  as  to  myself,  I  was  so 
exhausted  I  was  only  too  glad  to  welcome  my  bed. 

"Three  long,  tedious  months  did  I  keep  watch 
and  ward  at  my  suffering  comrade's  bedside,  min 
istering  to  his  wants  in  every  possible  way,  striving 
to  alleviate  his  fearful  sufferings,  enhanced,  as  they 
necessarily  must  be,  from  the  furious  heat,  until  at 
length  his  wounds  were  healed  and  his  arm  saved. 

"On  an  uncommonly  hot  afternoon,  Yoseph  slum 
bering  in  his  hammock,  as  I  supposed,  while  I 


6         THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

lazily  reclined  in  an  easy  chair  turning  the  pages 
of  a  lately  published  novel — reading  was  out  of  the 
question — Yoseph,  who,  as  I  shortly  afterward  dis 
covered,  was  not  sleeping,  but  simply  cogitating, 
abruptly  broke  the  silence  and  my  reverie  by  say 
ing:  'Master,  you  have  been  uncommonly  good  to 
your  poor  servant,  day  after  day  sitting  by  his 
couch,  even  to  the  neglecting  of  your  own  interests 
for  his  welfare.  Moreover,  by  the  help  of  Allah, 
you  have  not  only  saved  this  good  right  arm,  but 
his  life  as  well.  How,  good  master,  can  I  recom 
pense  you,  for  surely  such  devotion  ought  not  to  go 
unrewarded  ?' 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 


CHAPTER  II. 

YOSEPH   REPAYS   HIS   MASTER. 


closely  to  what  I  am  about  to  say, 
master,  for  it  is  something  I  am  persuaded  you 
will  be  pleased  to  hear.  Know  then,  that  eighteen 
months  or  more  since,  in  company  with  three  com 
rades  I  was  traveling  in  a  remote  portion  of  the 
kingdom,  when  on  an  afternoon  an  hour  or  so  be 
fore  sunset,  a  roebuck  sprang  up  at  our  feet  and 
made  his  way  across  the  plain  apparently  seeking 
shelter  in  the  midst  of  a  distant  wood. 

"  'Taking  little  heed  to  the  lateness  of  the  hour 
we  put  spurs  to  our  steeds,  and,  master,  we  had  a 
long  chase,  and  night  had  fallen  ere  the  quarry  was 
overtaken;  in  the  meantime  the  sky  had  become 
overcast  with  dark,  threatening  clouds,  which 
seemed  to  loom  up  on  every  side,  and  to  which, 
much  to  our  regret,  we  had  not  paid  the  least  at 
tention,  but  now,  discovering  the  perilous  situa 
tion,  our  minds  were  filled  with  doubt  and  fore 
boding  lest  we  fail  in  securing  the  much  needed 
shelter  ere  the  storm  break,  which  one  could  not 
fail  to  notice,  was  rapidly  approaching.  An  enor 
mous  oak,  however,  was  now  sighted,  so  hurrying 
on  we  soon  gained  the  coveted  refuge,  and  now 
came  a  flash  and  report  that  seemed  to  rend  the 
"heavens  in  twain/'  The  shock  was  so  violent  that 


8         THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

I  was  thrown  to  the  ground,  where,  stunned  and 
unconscious,  I  lay  until  the  rain,  falling  in  delug 
ing  sheets  upon  my  exposed  face,  so  contributed 
to  my  regaining  consciousness  that  it  was  but  a 
comparatively  short  space  of  time  when  I  was  able 
to  sit  up  and  look  about  me,  but  what  was  my 
consternation  to  behold  my  companions  lying  out 
stretched,  who,  upon  examination,  I  found  life 
less.  And  now  to  contribute  to  the  horror  of  the 
situation,  nightfall  had  approached,  the  darkness 
rendered  thereby  nearly  total;  moreover,  and,  to 
add  to  the  discomfort,  the  rainfall  was  of  a  volume 
I  had  never  before  experienced. 

"  'It  was  in  this  manner,  affrighted  and  trem 
bling,  I  remained,  until  I  was  overjoyed  to  find 
the  tempest  abating, 'when  soon  after  the  angry 
clouds  broke,  revealing  a  sea  of  blue  above,  around, 
a  clear  sky  from  out  of  which  the  moon  shone  with 
a  lustre  only  seen  in  tropical  latitudes;  yet,  look 
in  whatsoever  direction  I  would,  not  a  trace  of  our 
previous  route  could  I  discern.  I  knew  not  where 
I  was;  I  knew  not  which  way  to  turn.  Alas!  I 
was  lost  in  the  wilds  of  an  uninhabited,  unknown 
region.  And  now  came  the  thought,  "What  am  I 
to  do?" 

"  'Summoning  up  a  resolution  that  never  fails 
me  in  emergency,  I  studied  the  perplexing  problem 
until  it  came  to  me  that  to  remain  where  I  now 
was  would  be  the  wiser  course.  Indeed,  I  had  no 
alternative,  for  to  continue  the  journey  by  moon 
light  would  only  tend  to  lead  me  farther  astray. 
So,  unsaddling  and  tethering  my  good  steed,  I  gave 
him  plenty  of  rope  that  he  might  not  go  hungry  for 
want  of  grass  to  nibble.  I  arranged  my  blankets, 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.         9 

placed  the  saddle  on  the  ground  in  lieu  of  a  better 
pillow,  then  lay  down  under  the  wide-spreading 
branches  of  the  towering  oak,  so  lately  witnessing 
the  awful  fate  of  my  poor  comrades,  whose  lifeless 
bodies  lay  exposed  to  my  gaze,  their  uncovered 
faces  scorched  and  blackened  by  the  lightning's 
fierce  blaze,  the  wide-open,  upturned  eyes,  glazed 
and  sightless,  glaring  toward  the  heavens  above. 
In  this  manner  I  remained  the  long  night  through ; 
the  appearance  of  dawn  I  hailed  with  delight. 

"  'Rising  from  my  hard  couch  I  replenished  my 
nearly  extinguished  fire,  removed  the  skin  from  the 
slain  roebuck,  then  over  the  live  coals  broiled  a 
few  slices  of  steak.  As  Selim  had  finished  his 
breakfast  and  my  own  wants  attended  to,  I  stowed 
the  remainder  of  the  steak  in  my  haversack,  ad 
justed  saddle  and  bridle,  mounted,  and  sped  in  the 
direction  I  supposed  would  take  me  to  the  road 
way  previously  traversed,  but  in  this  I  was  griev 
ously  mistaken,  for  on  riding  till  near  the  close  of 
the  day  I  was  almost  bereft  of  my  senses  to  find 
myself  journeying  in  an  entirely  different  direc 
tion  to  that  I  should  have  taken.  Here  was  a 
dilemma  indeed,  and  just  what  to  do  was  wholly 
out  of  the  range  of  my  calculations,  for  I  had  not 
the  least  knowledge  of  that  part  of  the  kingdom, 
and  the  farther  I  advanced  the  more  my  perplexity 
increased,  for  I  was  thoroughly  well  assured  that  I 
was  leaving  all  trace  of  human  existence  behind. 

"  'Convinced  that  indecision  would  in  no  wise 
avail,  and  that  hesitation  might  prove  fatal,  I  re 
solved  to  continue  the  present  course,  trusting  the 
good  offices  of  Allah  to  extricate  me  from  pend 
ing  troubles,  so  giving  Selim  the  rein,  I  pushed  on 


10       THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN"  HERMIT. 

in  hope  of  reaching  some  friendly  shelter  ere  night 
fall,  now  swiftly  advancing,  should  put  a  stop  to 
further  progress.  Upon  a  rough  estimate  of  the 
distance  traversed  since  the  early  morning  I  con 
cluded  that  a  good  three-score  miles  intervened,  so 
spurring  on,  I  soon  after  observed  a  dark  mass 
sharply  outlined  against  a  background  of  purplish- 
hued  sky,  yet  consequent  on  the  great  distance,  I 
was  unable  to  distinguish  its  character. 

"  'Upon  drawing  nigh,  however,  I  soon  brought 
up  against  a  gloomy,  impenetrable  jungle,  where 
upon  I  dismounted,  picketed  my  weary  steed,  pre 
pared  supper,  and  afterward  laid  down  for  the 
night. 

"  'You  must  know,  good  master,  that  I  spent  a 
considerable  part  of  the  night  in  warding  off  the 
wild  beasts,  who  congregating  at  this  particular 
point,  were  supposedly  in  the  vicinity  of  water. 
Thus  the  long  night  spent,  I  resolved  to  test  the 
accuracy  of  my  speculations  by  striving  to  pene 
trate  the  jungle,  thinking  some  pathway  must  per 
force  lead  to  the  interior  whereby  the  wild  animals 
would  be  enabled  to  go  back  and  forth  in  order  to 
quench  their  thirst,  so  again  mounting,  I  rode 
around  the  border,  until  at  length  my  search  was 
rewarded  by  coming  on  the  desired  opening,  which 
I  immediately  entered,  finding,  as  I  hoped,  a  path 
way,  which  I  followed  until  I  emerged  on  the  shore 
of  a  small  sheet  of  water,  or,  as  one  might  say,  a 
small  lake.  In  the  center  of  this  lake,  embowered 
in  the  midst  of  a  profusion  of  tropical  foliage,  was 
a  little  isle.  Selim,  overcome  with  thirst  and 
taking  the  bit  in  his  teeth,  plunged  ahead,  buried 
his  muzzle  deep  down  in  the  sparkling  waters, 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT.       11 

while  I,  in  like  mood,  followed  suit;  and,  master, 
never  was  nectar  half  so  delicious. 

"  'Now  comes  the  query,  For  what  purpose  was 
yon  enchanted  isle  created?  Surely  not  for  the 
dwelling  place  of  spirits  of  evil,  else  'twould  not 
be  so  beautiful;  moreover,  from  its  extreme  isola 
tion  it  was  quite  possible  human  foot  had  never 
trod  its  lonely  shore,  and  even  were  such  the  case, 
ages  had  likely  intervened.  Indeed,  it  was  so  far 
removed  from  travel,  so  concealed  from  the  quest 
of  the  most  indefatigable  explorer  that  I  was  con 
vinced  that  this  little  isle  may  have  been  silent 
witness  to  strange  scenes.  Aye !  the  very  receptacle 
of  prehistoric  remains. 

"  'Thus  cogitating  I  resolved  forthwith  to  make 
the  most  complete  investigation  possible.  So,  giv 
ing  the  word,  Selim  pushed  boldly  ahead.  The 
waters  were  of  such  a  depth  as  to  compel  the  beast 
to  take  to  swimming,  when,  soon  after  the  shore  was 
reached  I  turned  my  brave  steed  loose,  then  made 
my  way  through  the  closely  woven  thicket  of  bush, 
bramble  and  twig,  finally  coming  upon  the  inner 
most  recesses  of  what  might  with  truth  be  termed 
"The  Enchanted  Isle  " 


13   THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 


CHAPTER  III. 

YOSEPH'S   WONDERFUL  DISCOVERY. 


can  conceive  my  emotions  when  beholding 
the  remarkable  objects  brought  to  view?  And  I 
cannot,  even  at  this  late  day,  comprehend  their 
magnitude,  for  it  was  simply  overwhelming! 

"  'Master,  you,  a  world-wide  traveler,  have  looked 
on  Allah's  works;  have  beheld  the  stupendous 
waterfall  ;  have  experienced  the  storm-tossed  ocean. 
Scanning  the  heavens  above,  have  thereby  sought 
to  estimate  the  number  and  dimensions  of  other 
worlds,  thus  forming  some  little  estimate  of  the 
Master's  power.  Yet,  gainsay  me  not,  when  I  do 
most  solemnly  aver  that  the  several  objects  I  there 
beheld  caused  all  else  to  sink  to  nothingness  in 
comparison,  not  so  much  perhaps  from  their  mag 
nitude,  as  their  wondrous  aspect.  For  here  were 
gray  ruins,  hoary,  moss-grown,  weather-beaten  and 
stained  ;  exquisitely  carved  ;  in  architectural  de 
sign  unsurpassed  ;  fluted  columns  of  immense  size. 
All  these  and  more,  half  buried  under  accumulated 
mold  and  debris  of  untold  ages,  while  towering 
high  above  all  were  hoary  monarchs  of  the  forest, 
many  of  even  larger  size  were  lying  underneath  in 
the  last  stages  of  decay,  while  all  things  thereabout 
bore  evidence  of  the  most  remote  antiquity. 

"  'While  I  mused,  my  every  sense  enthralled,  my 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.       13 

every  wish  about  to  be  gratified,  my  hopes  even, 
so  nearly  on  the  eve  of  being  realized,  I  gave  little 
heed  to  the  flight  of  time  until  recalled  thereto 
by  the  neighs  of  Selim,  who,  more  eager  for  his 
noonday  meal  than  desire  for  exploration,  made  the 
air  resound  with  calls  for  dinner.  As  for  myself, 
I  felt  not  the  most  remote  desire  for  food;  the 
pangs  of  hunger,  did  such  exist,  were  lost  in  re 
quirements  of  the  intellect,  the  latter  so  immeas 
urably  overshadowing  the  former  there  was  hardly 
room  for  comparison. 

"  'My  one  engrossing  thought  was,  how  to  secure 
possession  of  these  mementoes  of  bygone  ages,  for 
that  here  were  relics  of  greater  moment  than  any 
heretofore  brought  to  light  and  to  a  world's  notice 
scarcely  admitted  of  a  doubt,  but  how  to  obtain 
them  was  the  principal  source  of  disquiet  agitating 
my  mind,  for  you  must  know,  master,  I  had  no 
implements  wherewith  to  explore  them.  Indeed, 
the  most  insignificant  investigation  was  simply  out 
of  the  question.  Therefore,  and  much  to  my 
chagrin,  I  was  compelled  to  forego  the  attempt,  so, 
carefully  scanning  the  ground,  thus  making  myself 
thoroughly  acquainted  with  the  locality,  I  turned 
regretfully  away,  called  Selim  to  my  side,  bridled, 
saddled  and  mounted,  again  swimming  the  lake, 
reached  the  opposite  shore,  then  took  up  the  course 
I  now  knew  to  lead  in  the  direction  of  home,  and 
I  can  honestly  say,  in  no  wise  sorry  to  have  been 
led  astray,  and  promising  myself  that  at  no  dis 
tant  day  I  would  repeat  my  visit  to  the  "Isle  of 
the  Lake"  fully  prepared  to  conduct  a  thorough 
investigation  of  those  ancient  ruins. 

"  'There,  master,  you  have  the  whole  story,  and 


14       THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

T  will  only  further  add  that  from  that  day  to  this 
it  has  been  a  settled  purpose  to  organize  an  ex 
pedition  commensurate  with  the  work  in  hand  and 
make  systematic  exploration,  but  from  lack  of 
means  I  have  been  unable  to  carry  out  the  con 
templated  scheme.' 

"Springing  to  my  feet  I  grasped  the  hand  of  my 
now  doubly  attached  servant. 

"  'Yoeeph,  faithful  friend,  we  will  commence 
operations  at  once  looking  to  the  carrying  out  of 
your  heretofore  zealously  guarded  plans,  and  yet — 
a  thought  strikes  me — How  am  I  to  find  the  lo 
cality  of  which  you  speak?  for  totally  unac 
quainted  as  I  am  with  that  portion  of  the  king 
dom,  it  would  be  impossible  to  compass  the  desired 
object.' 

"  'Easy  enough,  master ;  easy  enough,'  Yoseph 
rejoined,  'for  you  see  it  must  necessarily  consume 
at  least  three  days  in  fully  organizing  the  expedi 
tion;  for  it  will  be  necessary  to  gather  together 
beasts  of  burden,  arms,  and  a  goodly  amount  of 
subsistence,  likewise  a  considerable  body  of  men, 
and  as  my  wounds  are  quite  healed,  I  see  nothing 
standing  in  the  way  to  prevent  my  accompanying 
the  expedition,  in  which  event,  I  can  lead  you  di 
rectly  to  the  point  in  question.' 

"The  close  of  the  third  day  thereafter  witnessed 
a  spectacle  inspiriting  to  the  eye  and  warming  the 
heart  more  than  mere  words  can  express,  for  in 
compact  column  were  a  full  score  of  camels,  one- 
half  the  number  of  trained  bullocks,  and  twice  the 
number  of  the  best  disciplined  and  sturdy  natives 
that  could  be  found.  On  each  man's  shoulder  a 
long-range  Winchester,  in  every  man's  sash  a  pair 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT.       15 

of  the  most  serviceable  revolvers,  while  hanging 
from  a  leathern  belt  was  cutlass  or  sabre. 

"On  the  morning  of  the  fourth  day  the  silvery 
note  of  the  bugle  was  heard  summoning  the  drowsy 
sleepers  to  arise,  when  soon  after  breakfast  was 
eaten  in  a  hurried  manner,  for  I  was  in  furious 
haste  to  set  out  on  the  long  journey  that  awaited 
us. 

"The  carts  loaded,  camels  and  bullocks  har 
nessed,  and  at  the  bugle's  call  the  brilliant  retinue 
filed  out  from  the  encampment,  a  long  and  doubt 
less  tedious  journey  at  our  front.  The  regiment  of 
Royal  Blues,  who  had  arisen  at  this  early  hour  to 
witness  our  departure,  at  the  rear. 

"The  word  given  and  we  were  off,  our  departure 
hailed  by  cheers  of  comrades  and  hurrahs  of  friends 
and  neighbors.  Thus  journeying,  with  scarcely  a 
day's  intermission  for  the  space  of  forty-and-five 
days,  the  afternoon  of  the  forty-fifth  finds  our 
column  encamped  on  the  border  of  the  jungle  dis 
covered  by  Yoseph,  and  whereto  his  skillful  pilot 
ing  had  led  us.  I  could  readily  imagine  the  poor 
fellow's  emotions  upon  being  confronted  by  the 
tangled,  impenetrable  jungle,  within  whose  noisome 
recesses  lay  the  silent  water  of  the  lake  on  whose 
silvery  bosom  reposed  'the  mysterious  isle/ 

"Ground  selected  suitable  for  camping,  the  carts 
drawn  up  in  line,  camels  and  bullocks  unharnessed, 
tethered  and  fed;  thus  preparations  are  completed 
for  a  three  days'  stay,  then  weary,  travel-stained  and 
worn,  all  seek  much  needed  rest  save  a  half-score 
sentinels  detailed  to  guard  the  camp,  for  we  knew 
not  to  what  perils  we  might  be  exposed. 

"The  night  passed,  all  were  astir  in  the  early 


16       THE  OLD  MOTJNTAIN  HEEMIT. 

morning,  while  Yoseph,  myself  and  two  others, 
rode  round  the  outskirts  of  the  jungle  looking  for 
an  opening,  when  all  of  a  sudden  Yoseph  in  ad 
vance  sang  out,  'Here  we  are,  master !'  and  sure 
enough,  for  here  was  an  opening,  the  identical  one 
we  had  been  seeking. 

"Entering  and  following  a  well-beaten,  though 
narrow,  pathway,  we  soon  reach  the  shore  of  a  most 
beautiful  sheet  of  water,  from  the  bosom  of  which 
rose  the  little  isle,  which  confirmed  Yoseph's  for 
mer  description,  for  a  more  entrancing  scene  was 
never  vouchsafed  the  eye  of  man.  And  now  with, 
little  urging  our  brave  steeds  pushed  headlong  into 
the  lake  in  Deeming  enjoyment  of  the  cooling  bath, 
the  waters  evidently  of  less  depth  than  on  Yoseph's 
previous  visit,  for  they  now  came  only  up  to  the 
saddle  girth,  so  a  few  minutes  later  we  deployed  on 
the  opposite  bank.  Hurrying  to  leave  the  saddle, 
we  quickly  stripped  the  horses  of  their  trappings 
and  allowed  them  to  roam  at  will,  the  sandy  beach 
offering  a  most  tempting  spot  for  rolling,  which 
they  were  not  long  in  taking  advantage  of,  for  this 
was  a  new  experience  in  their  lives.  We  next  cut 
a  broad  road  leading  to  the  very  center,  thus  bring 
ing  to  view  the  surface  of  the  island,  where  the 
ruins  described  by  Yoseph  were  situated,  and,  Joe, 
my  God !  what  a  spectacle  !  Memorials  of  bygone 
ages,  monuments  of  an  era  preceding  the  famed 
Deluge  were  there,  but  it  was  even  yet  scarcely 
suspected,  much  less  understood,  what  investiga 
tion  was  destined  to  bring  forth,  and  how  much  less 
imagined,  that  we  were  to  be  carried  back  to  the 
very  dawn  of  creation. 

"Excavation    was  at  once    begun    and    pressed 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEBMIT.       17 

with  much  vigor,  although  the  work  was  extremely 
laborious,  for  the  sand,  clay  and  gravel  were  so 
thoroughly  packed  that  it  was  almost  like  digging 
into  granite.  However,  the  work  progressed  in  so 
satisfactory  a  manner,  that  just  a  few  minutes  pre 
ceding  sunset  our  feet  rested  on  a  solid  marble-like 
surface  believed,  at  the  time,  to  be  the  outer  cover 
ing  of  a  stone  sarcophagus,  which  was  soon  after 
confirmed. 

"Xext  morning  I  was  in  furious  haste  to  get  at 
those  ancient  stones.  Implements  were  again  taken 
in  hand  and  piled  with  so  much  skill  that  a  tomb 
was  soon  unearthed,  bringing  to  light  a  coffin  of  the 
most  extraordinary  proportions,  and  so  hermetically 
sealed  as  to  require  the  most  strenuous  exertions  to 
raise  the  lid.  This,  however,  accomplished,  revealed 
a  form  eleven  feet,  four  and  one-half  inches  in 
height,  three  feet  in  breadth  at  the  shoulder.  The 
skin  of  a  dark  brown  substance,  which,  coming  in 
contact  with  the  outer  air,  rose  in  a  stifling  cloud 
of  grayish  dust. 

"Just  what  my  emotions  were  upon  experiencing 
this  startling  series  of  events  I  cannot  say,  but  that 
they  were  overwhelming  I  cannot  deny,  for,  stand 
ing,  as  one  might  say,  on  the  verge  of  creation,  with 
a  hand  resting  on  one  of  its  first  completed  works, 
was,  to  say  the  least,  astounding. 

"As  far  as  exploration  had  advanced  investiga 
tion  was  made,  and  I  became  more  and  more  con 
vinced  that  others  of  equal,  possibly  more  impor 
tance,  were  at  hand. 

"The  remains  were  now  packed  in  as  small  space 
as  possible,  for  I  was  determined  to  transport  the 
relics  by  saddle,  so  that  in  no  case  would  they  be 


18       THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

lost  sight  of,  though  as  yet  not  comprehending  a 
tithe  of  their  real  worth. 

"All  things  satisfactorily  arranged,  we  set  out 
on  the  return  well  pleased,  as  might  be  supposed, 
with  the  result  of  our  labors,  the  only  source  of 
regret  lying  in  the  fact  that  I  was  compelled  to 
turn  back  without  finishing  the  exploration,  de 
termined  in  my  own  mind,  however,  to  return  at 
no  distant  day,  better  prepared  for  thorough  in 
vestigation  when  machinery  of  power  adequate  to 
the  work  could  be  provided. 

"It  had  by  this  time  become  in  my  own  mind  a 
settled  conviction  that  the  'Isle  of  the  Lake'  was  a 
vast  charnel  house,  where  were  deposited  remains 
of  the  most  renowned  characters  of  prehistoric 
times,  and  should  such  prove  the  case,  what  more 
probable  than  when  unearthed  and  brought  before 
the  world,  a  sensation  unparalleled  in  its  history 
would  be  the  result ! 

"An  uncommonly  singular,  and  to  my  mind  sur 
prising,  circumstance,  arose  from  the  fact  that 
while  the  form  was  as  nearly  perfect  as  it  might  be 
it  was  also  in  a  remarkable  state  of  preservation. 
More  extended  observation  disclosed  a  recess  deeply 
cut  in  one  side  of  the  coffin,  from  which  were  taken 
a  bundle  of  silver  plates,  numbering  in  the  aggre 
gate  forty-two,  twenty  inches  in  length,  twelve  in 
breadth,  and  about  the  thickness  of  ordinary  letter 
paper. 

"On  either  side  of  these  plates  were  beautifully 
engraved  letters  of  a  type  hitherto  unknown,  there 
fore,  it  immediately  occurred  to  me,  likewise  a 
matter  of  speculation,  as  to  whether  the  body  at  the 
time  of  death  had  been  subjected  to  embalmment,  a 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.       19 

process,  as  believed,  known  only  to  the  Egyptians, 
yet,  on  further  reflection,  I  at  once  became  con 
vinced  that  this  could  not  be,  from  the  fact  that 
there  was  not  the  slightest  evidence  of  such  a  course 
of  treatment.  Furthermore,  these  remains  were 
evidently  of  a  more  remote  date  than  even  the 
Egyptian  race,  a  fact  proved  beyond  the  possibility 
of  doubt  by  finding  several  pieces  of  gold  coin  bear 
ing  date  many  centuries  previous  to  the  time  of 
Noah,  and  the  alleged  Deluge. 

"Notwithstanding  these  seemingly  truthful  evi 
dences  of  a  long-forgotten  past,  I  was  illy  prepared 
for  the  surprise  of  an  after-investigation,  never  for 
an  instant  suspecting  the  identity  of  a  record  going 
away  back  to  the  advent  of  the  first  born  of  the 
human  family,  yet  such  was  the  case,  for  here  was 
proof  positive  that  could  not  be  gainsaid  nor  set 
aside. 


20   THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 


CHAPTER  IV. 

COLONEL   ASHBURTOX'S    RETURN. 

"TiiE  Royal  Blues  having,  much  to  my  gratifica 
tion,  fulfilled  their  'missionary'  duties  in  India, 
were  ordered  home,  and  now  I  was  extremely 
anxious  to  get  the  tablets  translated,  for  until  this 
was  done  it  would  be  impossible  to  place  any  mar 
ketable  estimate  on  their  value,  nor  did  I  anticipate 
any  trouble  in  their  translation,  in  that  I  felt  rea 
sonably  well  assured  that  some  one  of  our  learned 
lexicographers  would  prove  equal  to  the  task,  but 
in  this  I  was  doomed  to  miserable  disappointment. 
As  an  offset  to  this,  however,  a  most  delightful  sur 
prise  was  in  waiting,  for  during  my  prolonged  ab 
sence  I  was  promoted  to  the  rank  of  Lieutenant- 
Colonel,  my  former  rank  being  that  of  Major.  But 
I  anticipate,  and  to  go  back  a  little,  the  prospect 
of  again  meeting  olden  time  friends  and  associates 
cheered  my  occasional  downcast  spirits  on  the 
homeward  journey,  for  I  had  been  absent  a  good 
twelve-month,  but  favoring  winds  in  conjunction 
with  a  good  head  of  steam  wafted  the  'Euphrates' 
swiftly  on  her  way,  hence,  in  due  time  anchor  was 
dropped  in  the  Thames,  the  great  city  of  London 
at  our  front,  India's  shores  thousands  of  miles  to 
the  rear. 

"A  day  spent  in  calling  on  friends  and  former 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.       21 

associates,  another  devoted  to  regimental  affairs,  and 
I  applied  for  a  renewal  of  absence  on  the  ground  of 
important  business,  which,  while  granted,  was  not 
without  remonstrance  from  my  colonel,  who  in 
sisted  the  good  of  the  service  demanded  stricter  at 
tention  to  business  than  I  had  of  late  given  it. 

"Bidding  my  regimental  friends  adieu,  I  took 
up  my  travels,  hasting  to  the  most  noted  and  trust 
worthy  savants  of  the  kingdom,  in  each  instance 
placing  the  tablets  in  their  hands  for  translation. 
But  what  was  my  consternation  to  find  each  and 
every  one  totally  ignorant  relative  to  the  contents, 
and,  in  fact,  after  the  most  persistent  efforts,  un 
wearied  labor,  coupled  in  many  instances  with  un 
just,  and  I  might  say  harsh,  criticism,  the  sage 
philosophers  were  compelled  to  desist,  vowing  noth 
ing  could  be  made  of  it,  one  of  the  learned  gentle 
men  going  so  far  in  his  chagrin  as  to  stigmatize  it 
'an  invention  of  the  devil/  finally  saying,  'I  am 
ready  to  swear,  good  sir,  it  is  beyond  the  power  of 
mortal  man  to  fathom  the  outlandish  tongue/  coun 
selling  me  (all  joining  in  the  verdict)  'that  there 
was  never  a  like  form  of  speech  known,  other  than, 
maybe  by  some  prehistoric  race,  of  which,  of  course, 
we  have  no  knowledge,  and  even  this  savors  of 
doubt.' 

"Disheartened,  but  not  wholly  discouraged,  I  re 
packed  the  tablets,  journeying  to  the  farthest 
bounds  of  the  kingdom,  and  afterward  to  the  Con 
tinent,  Italy,  Germany,  France,  Spain,  etc.,  but 
without  result,  for  it  was  ever  the  same:  'Xothing- 
can  be  made  of  it.' 

"As  a  last  resort  I  resolved  to  apply  where  it  was 
presumed  the  strange  language  had  origin,  viz., 


22       THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

India.,  thinking  Providence  or  some  occult  influ 
ence  might  peradventure  have  compassion  by 
throwing  in  my  way  some  learned  native  who  for 
pecuniary  consideration  would  be  willing  to  lend 
me  assistance.  But  now  came  the  unwelcome 
thought,  suppose  I  fail  in  this  last  supreme  effort, 
my  labors  perforce  come  to  an  untoward  end.  yet 
I  dare  not  dwell  on  the  unwelcome  possibility,  for, 
you  see,  Joe,  I  had  become  so  thoroughly  imbued 
with  the  desire  that  the  tablets  must  be  deciphered, 
that  I  neither  could,  nor  would,  longer  submit  to 
deferred  uncertainty;  therefore,  as  previously 
stated,  I  would  make  one  last  desperate  effort,  to 
which  end  I  again  took  up  my  travels,  journeying 
to  a  neighboring  seaport,  there  to  learn,  if  possible, 
at  what  hour,  day  or  week  some  vessel  or  other  was 
likely  to  eail  for  India. 

"On  the  evening  of  the  fourth  day  thereafter  I 
found  myself  and  baggage  on  board  the  London 
Company's  steamship  'Rodiques,'  just  on  the  point 
of  weighing  anchor,  preparatory  to  standing  out  to 
sea. 

"Well,  to  make  a  long  story  short,  as  I  think  I've 
heard  you  say,  seventy  and  five  days'  continuous 
travel  and  trie  blue  hills  of  India  loomed  at  our 
front,  thousands  of  leagues  of  old  ocean  spanned, 
and  I  more  pleased  than  mere  words  can  tell,  to 
take  leave  of  the  one  and  make  acquaintance  with 
the  other. 

"Bidding  the  ship's  company  'good-bye,'  I  am 
pleased  to  inform  the  captain  that  my  absence  from 
the  ship  would  not  under  any  circumstances  be  un 
duly  prolonged,  I  set  out  in  search  of  some  one, 
native  or  otherwise,  competent  to  unravel  the  skeia 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEKMIT.       23 

of  perplexity  wherewith  I  was  so  completely  en 
tangled, — in  other  words,  I  wanted  to  find  the  man 
who  could  decipher  the  much-abused  tablets;  so 
upon  faithful  inquiry  and  diligent  search,  I  was 
rewarded  for  both  by  receiving  the  information 
that  many  score  miles  distant  an  aged  hermit  re 
sided  who  would  no  doubt  come  up  to  the  require 
ments. 

"As  a  first  step  I  resolve  to  hunt  up  my  old  serv 
ant,  Yoseph,  who,  I  was  sure,  would  both  welcome 
his  master  and  lend  assistance  wherever  most  neces 
sary,  so  taking  time,  as  usual,  by  the  forelock,  I 
soon  after  found  the  worthy  fellow,  whom,  'tis 
needless  to  say,  was  overjoyed  on  again  taking  the 
hand  of  his  old  master. 

"Preparations  made,  and  we  set  out  on  a  pros- 
pectively  long  journey  for  the  mountain  habitation, 
which  was  many  leagues  distant.  A  rough,  tortu 
ous  pathway  leading  thither. 

"Inasmuch  as  I  was  not  very  well  informed  as 
to  the  general  character  of  those  we  might  chance 
to  meet  on  the  way,  whether  of  human  or  brute,  I 
took  the  precaution  of  enlisting  in  my  service  a 
half-dozen  ablebodied  natives,  so  that  I  felt  quite 
well  prepared  for  any  emergency  that  might  arise. 

"It  was  in  this  manner  we  journeyed  for  the 
space  of  five  days,  camping  at  night,  halting  now 
and  then  by  day  for  an  hour's  rest,  frequently  beset 
by  perils,  lions  or  Bengal  tigers  compelling  us 
to  fight  our  passage  over  the  contested  ground, 
until  at  length  we  arrived  at  the  foothills  of  a 
mountain  range  of  seemingly  inaccessible  heights, 
within  whose  secluded  depths  it  was  said  the  lonely 
cabin  of  the  aged  pilgrim  was  located. 


24      THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN"  HERMIT. 

"Still  pushing  ahead,  the  path  leading  onward- 
and  upward,  we  emerge  on  a  dark,  gloomy  defile 
overhung  by  lofty  trees,  environed  by  rocky  cliffs, 
altogether  presenting  a  most  cheerless,  unprepos 
sessing  aspect,  hence  it  was  beyond  my  power  of 
calculation  to  conceive  why  any  human  being  should 
choose  for  permanent  habitation  such  a  dreary  spot ! 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.   25 


CHAPTER  V. 

A    STRANGE   BEIXG. 

"LABORIOUSLY  making  our  way  along,  we  ad 
vance  up  the  ravine,  the  rocky  heights  on  either 
side  scarcely  admitting  a  ray  of  sunlight,  when  all 
of  a  sudden  I  spy  a  rudely  constructed  log  cabin. 

"Leaving  my  horse  in  the  care  of  Yoseph,  with 
instructions  to  remain  at  the  side  of  his  compan 
ions,  I  dismount,  then  proceed  to  investigate,  but 
before  a  half-dozen  steps  are  taken  the  door  of  the 
cabin  is  thrown  violently  open,  and  a  strange,  weird 
figure  is  revealed. 

"Well,  thought  I,  if  appearances  count  for  any 
thing,  then  the  being  standing  before  me  must  cer 
tainly  have  seen  the  light  of  day  long  ages  pre« 
ceding  the  Deluge,  peradventure  been  silent  witness 
to  that  world-wide  calamity.  Indeed,  I  would  have 
been  little  surprised  had  the  eminent  ark-builder 
in  person  appeared. 

"Invitation  extended  to  enter  the  poor  habita 
tion.  The  aged  relict  gave  me  kindly  greeting, 
extending  a  hand  in  token  of  friendship,  at  the 
same  time  welcoming  me  in  the  words,  'Sir,  I  feel 
specially  gratified  in  thus  receiving,  in  my  humble 


26       THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN"  HERMIT. 

abode,  one  whom  I  can  but  know  has  come  for 
some  worthy  object,  for  you  must  understand,  good 
sir,  the  dwellers  hereabout,  do  I  so  chance  to  appear 
in  their  midst,  manifest  no  little  alarm;  but  why, 
I  know  not/ 

"Thus  challenged,  I  draw  from  their  receptacle 
the  precious  tablets  and  place  them  in  his  hands, 
whereupon,  to  my  unbounded  astonishment,  and 
no  less  gratification,  by  a  single  glance,  and  with 
out  a  moment's  hesitation,  he  recites  as  from  an 
open  book.  Then,  raising  his  eyes  heavenward, 
and  taking  note  of  the  expression  of  my  face,  ludi 
crous  enough,  I'll  warrant,  for  both  physically  and 
mentally — from  the  ease  he  deciphered  a  tongue 
hitherto  setting  at  defiance  the  most  noted  lexicog 
raphers  of  the  day — I  was  nearly  paralyzed. 

"Regarding  me  with  the  closest  scrutiny,  an  ex 
pression  of  sadness  meantime  overshadowing  his 
withered  features,  he  lifts  up  his  voice — some  hid 
den  emotion  evidently  betrayed  from  the  broken 
accents:  'My  friend,  singular  as  it  may  appear, 
this  is  the  tongue  of  my  boyhood.  In  point  of 
fact,  these  tablets  were  fashioned  by  mine  own  hand. 
Those  bones  thou  hast,  at  the  expenditure  of  so 
much  treasure,  secured,  and  by  which  thou  hold- 
est  so  much  store,  are  mine — rather,  were — but 
mine  no  longer,  for  what  need  have  I  of  these 
worn-out  tenements  of  clay,  ere  long  to  be  rele 
gated  to  mother  earth — for  hath  not  the  Master's 
edict  gone  forth,  "From  the  dust  thou  art,  and 
unto  the  dust  thou  shalt  return"  ?  Kind  sir,  doth 
question  these,  mine  sayings  ?  Yea !  As  I  plainly 
see,  thou  dost.  Nevertheless,  proof  shall  not  be 
wanting.' 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.       27 

"At  this  startling  announcement,  I  was  so  nearly 
overcome  with  awe  that  the  weight  of  a  feather, 
I  do  believe,  would  have  crushed  me,  and  as  it 
was,  I  came  nigh  falling  to  the  earth — and 
few  there  be,  my  friend,  who  would  have  been  af 
fected  otherwise;  nor  could  I  as  yet  fully  compre 
hend  the  significance  of  the  old  man's  words.  How 
ever,  I  soon  regained  my  physical  equilibrium — 
but  mentally  I  was  all  at  sea. 

"  'But  who  are  you,  sir,  and  by  what  right  do 
you,  who  profess  to  know  all  things,  seek  thus  to 
play  on  the  fancies  of  an  unsophisticated — not  to 
say  unsuspecting — stranger  ?' 

"  'Unsuspecting,  indeed !  Colonel  Henry  Ash- 
burton — Colonel,  as  thou  dost  claim,  and  no  doubt 
rightfully — thou  mayest  well  say,  "Thou  who  so 
professeth  to  know  all  things."  Say,  rather,  "Thou 
who  dost  know  all  things,"  and  even  then  thou 
wouldst  do  little  justice  to  that  to  which  I  lay 
claim,  neither  to  my  acknowledged  abilities  and 
powers,  as  I  will  soon  prove  to  thee,  in  this,  that 
I  was  an  unseen — hence,  an  unknown — listener 
to  thy  avowals,  when  thou  wert  in  the  first  throes 
of  ambition,  looking  to  the  furtherance  of  thy  un 
hallowed  scheme.  Moreover,  I  was  an  unknown 
follower  on  thy  perilous  mission,  a  wise  counsellor, 
standing  guard,  as  otherwise  thy  bones  would  not 
be  in  one  whit  better  plight  than  those  to  which 
thou  dost  lay  unquestioned  claim — through  what 
might  be  termed  "original  discovery." 

"  Torego,  then,  I  do  adjure  thee,  all  further  at 
tempt  to  fathom  the  hidden  mysteries  of  the  "Isle 
of  the  Lake,"  for  thou  hast  already  done  enough 
and  more;  therefore  I  do  beseech  thee,  seek  not  to 


28       THE  OLD  MOUXTAIX  HERMIT. 

•unearth  other  remains,  over  which  unnumbered 
ages  have  silently  rolled. 

"  'Hearken  unto  these,  my  sayings,  and  be  guided 
therewith,  else  in  sackcloth  and  ashes  thou  wilt 
surely  repent.  But  to  that  thou  hast  thou  art  wel 
come,  and  to  go  still  further  I  say  to  thee,  "De 
posit  my  old  bones  wheresoever  thou  wilt,  and  no 
harm  shall  come  to  thee  for  so  doing." 

"  'See  to  it,  then,  ye  disturb  not  the  others,  else 
thy  doom  shalt  be  irrevocably  sealed. 

"'One  other  question  thou  didst  ask,  "Who  art 
thou  ?"  For  answer,  the  lone  survivor  of  a  calam 
ity  wherein  the  world  wast  adjudged  to  destruction 
— all,  I  repeat,  save  those  borne  up  on  the  great 
Ark,  besides  a  few  the  world  knoweth  not  of,  and 
of  whom  thy  ancient  records  make  no  mention. 
Likewise,  one  whose  destiny  it  is  to  remain  ages 
hence.' 

"And  now,  as  on  the  instant,  I  glance  upward, 
what  do  mine  eyes  rest  upon  ?  A  scar,  Joe — a 
veritable  scar — otherwise,  a  seal  set  on  his  brow, 
from  which  fact  I  now,  for  the  first  time,  began  to 
suspect  his  identity. 

"Joe,  were  you  ever  thrashed  at  school — thus  led 
to  estimate  yourself  the  least  of  all  created  objects  ? 
— for  such,  I  am  sure,  is  the  consideration  one, 
under  such  conditions,  is  likely  to  put  on  himself 
when  subjected  to  the  humility  of  a  flogging. 
Anyhow,  it  was  so  in  my  own  case,  when  called 
upon  to  square  accounts  with  the  master — an  art, 
be  it  said,  supposed  lost  until  about  the  time  I 
came  on  the  stage  of  existence;  that  is  to  say,  in 
turn-over  collar,  roundabout,  and  bare  feet. 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.       29 

"Allowing  such  to  be  the  case,  you  may,  in  some 
small  degree,  realize  my  peculiar  sensations — I, 
commander-in-chief  of  a  regiment  famed  for  loy 
alty  to  the  Crown,  noted  for  courage  on  the  field 
of  battle;  in  all  my  public  acts  displaying  un 
wonted  chivalry — I,  Colonel  Henry  Ashburton,  of 
the  Royal  Blues,  universally  known  as  a  gallant 
officer,  a  soldier  of  renown,  in  the  glory  thereof 
maintaining  an  uplifting  mien — at  this  particular 
moment  assuming  an  attitude  of  the  most  abject 
humility,  in  bending  the  knee  before  a  personage 
styling  himself  'The  First  Born'  of  the  human 
race. 

'"Indulging  these  not  overly  pleasing  reflections, 
I  am,  ere  long,  recalled  to  my  senses  by  the  old 
hermit  again  lifting  up  his  voice  in  the  words, 
'Henry  Ashburton,  ye  do  think  ye  are  looking  on 
one  in  the  flesh.  Didst  never  hear  of  spiritual  ex 
istence?  Yea,  more,  spirit  materialized?  Yet, 
whether  ye  have  or  no,  the  form  ye  now  behold  is, 
of  a  verify,  of  spiritual  mould ;  moreover,  that  form 
within  which  I  did  at  one  time  dwell  ye  now  have 
in  your  own  keeping,  and  as  I  was  the  first  of  all 
flesh,  so  likewise  shall  I  be  the  last.  Didst  never 
hear  of  one  who  slew  his  brother,  and  for  which  un 
righteous  act  wert  adjudged  to  never-ending  exist 
ence  ?  But  not  in  the  flesh ;  and  now  that  so  much 
labor  has  been  spent,  so  much  strength  and  treasure 
squandered,  in  order  to  lay  thy  hands  on  my  old 
bones — 'tis  true,  to  me  worthless,  yet  to  thee  per- 
adventure  of  some  special  benefit — I  will  to  thee  a 
tale  rehearse,  but  one  never  before  told  to  mortal, 
whether  in  or  out  of  the  body. 

"  'Cast  aloft  thine  eyes,  look  on  this  face,  and 


30       THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

whom  do  ye  think  ye  behold?  For  answer,  "He 
who  slew  his  brother." 

"  'Dost  understand  ?  Canst  grasp  the  meaning  ? 
Nay,  'tis  hard,  I  know,  for  the  finite  to  comprehend 
the  infinite.  Yet  'twas  not  in  mere  wantonness 
the  deed  was  done;  neither  was  it  a  premeditated 
act.  On  the  contrary,  I  was  by  the  Master  so 
angered  that  I  realized  not  what  I  was  doing. 

"  'See  ye  not  this  scar  ?  This  seal  set  on  my 
brow?  Deeply  burned  thereon,  lest  perchance  it 
sometime  fade?  Aye,  I  see  thou  dost.  And  'tis  a 
sign  that,  be  he  man  or  devil,  none  dare  lift  a  hand 
against  me,  no  beast  cross  my  path,  to  do  me  an 
injury.  Ah !  Methinks  I  hear  thee  say,  "To  be 
thus  protected  would,  indeed,  be  a  blessing."  On 
the  contrary,  to  be  thus  ostracized  from  one's  kind, 
the  very  beasts  of  the  field  shunning  thy  presence, 
from  all  thy  fellow  beings  bereft  of  sympathy, 
surely  this  is  the  hardest  lot  ever  thrust  on  poor 
humanity ! 

" ' Again,  I  would  counsel  thee  in  this :  Whoso 
ever  sheddeth  blood  in  mere  wantonness,  whether 
of  human  or  brute,  of  such  an  one  shall  the  same 
be  required.  Therefore,  I  do  enjoin  thee,  that  so 
long  as  thou  abideth  in  the  flesh,  proclaim  these 
mine  sayings,  bearing  witness  thereto,  that  he  who 
doeth  as  I  have  done  shall  in  like  manner  suffer.' 

"Perceiving  that  my  aged  host  was  becoming 
weary — else,  maybe,  overcome  by  some  hidden  emo 
tion — I  thought  to  take  my  departure,  and  on  the 
point  of  bidding  him  adieu,  believing  it  no  more 
than  right  to  requite  his  inestimable  services, 
begged  his  acceptance  of  something  more  substan- 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.       31 

tial  than  mere  thanks,  thereupon  tendering  him  a 
well  filled  purse. 

"  'Nay,  nay,  good  friend !'  the  Ancient  expos 
tulates.  'Desist,  I  beg.  Of  gold  I  have  not  need, 
so  put  up  thy  purse;  but  remember  this,  that 
should  you  chance  on  some  needy  mortal,  put  in 
such  an  hand  that  thou  wouldst  so  generously  be 
stow  on  me/ 


32       THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 


CHAPTER  VI. 

HOMEWARD   BOUND. 

"EXTENDING  a  hand  in  farewell,  I  returned  to 
my  waiting  comrades,  mounted,  gave  the  word,  and 
we  were  off,  our  steeds  seemingly  as  desirous  to 
take  leave  as  were  their  riders. 

"Barely  on  the  way,  I  chanced  to  look  back,  and 
saw  the  old  man  standing  in  the  doorway  of  his 
little  cabin,  with  gaze  intently  fixed  on  our  retreat 
ing  forms.  Then  a  shout  of  'God-speed/  and  re 
treat  in  the  inside  of  the  cabin,  which  entering, 
the  door  was  closed;  betaking  himself,  no  doubt,  to 
his  accustomed  supernal  cogitations,  while  as  to. 
myself,  I  was  completely  wrapped  up  in  that  to 
which  I  had  so  lately  been  an  eager  listener,  and 
I  could  come  to  but  the  one  conclusion — that  this 
strange  personage  was,  of  a  verity,  a  disembodied 
spirit  manifest  in  the  flesh — else,  a  rank  impostor. 
But,  whichever  it  was,  I  had  fulfilled  my  mission,, 
feeling  amply  rewarded  for  the  trouble  incident 
to  the  lengthy  journey ;  not  only  this,  but  the  vexed 
question  as  relating  to  the  tablets  was  forever  set 
at  rest,  our  wise  men  at  home  set  at  naught — prob 
ably  much  to  their  chagrin,  for,  as  they  at  one  time 
avowed,  'there  was  no  meaning  whatever  to  be  at 
tached  to  the  outlandish  symbols.  Hence,  in  so 
fax  as  any  good  could  come  from  their  attempted 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.       33 

solution,  they  might  just  as  well  be  cast  into  the 
sea.'  Suffice  it  to  say,  their  averments  were  wholly 
disproved,  for  I  had  in  my  possession  ample  proofs 
to  the  contrary,  in  the  form  of  a  legible  written 
manuscript,  which,  published,  would  without  doubt 
set  the  wiseacres  of  the  kingdom  all  agog. 

"Well,  Joe,  it  is  high  time  I  was  bringing  the 
history  of  my  adventures  to  an  ending,  so  I  will 
only  farther  add  that,  on  reaching  the  dock,  anchor 
was  weighed,  sail  set,  and  in  a  little  less  than  sixty- 
five  days  thereafter  I  was  threading  the  thronged 
streets  of  the  world's  metropolis,  a  comparatively 
happy  man,  for  I  had  met  with  unqualified  success. 

"There,  Joe,  you  have  the  whole  story  in  a  nut 
shell — so  to  speak,  and  a  pretty  hard  one  to  crack, 
as  I  imagine — but  under  all  and  every  circum 
stance,  please  not  to  forget  that  'Mum's  the  word/ 
for  were  my  friends — especially  army  comrades — 
to  get  hold  of  the  story,  I  would  never  hear  the  last 
of  it;  for,  to  a  man,  they'd  swear  I  was  fit  subject 
for  a  lunatic  asylum,  else  victim  of  some  strange 
hallucination ;  maybe  not  far  out  of  the  way  in  the 
latter  assertion,  for  you  must  know  it  is  a  hard 
matter  to  explain  doings  of  an  unearthly  character." 

I  freely  assented  to  the  Colonel's  stipulation 
relative  to  the  enjoined  secrecy,  and  how  faithfully 
I  have  kept  my  promise  my  readers  must  be  the 
ones  to  decide.  I  am  positive,  however,  that  he  is 
not  much  displeased,  as  otherwise  the  fact  would 
long  ago  have  been  made  manifest.  Still,  there 
are  good  and  sufficient  reasons  for  his  silence,  be 
cause  the  Royal  Blues  were  shortly  after  ordered 
to  foreign  parts,  while  I  settled  down  to  work,  now 
and  then  recuperating  my  overly  taxed  energies 


34      THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

by  visiting  relatives  in  the  aforesaid  county  town — 
visits  expected  soon  to  cease,  inasmuch  as  bans  of 
my  marriage  have  already  been  published,  so  it 
will,  in  all  probability,  not  be  long  before  the  nup 
tials  are  celebrated — that  is  to  say,  unless  some 
other  equally  good-looking  fellow  put  in  prior 
claim,  in  which  event,  instead  of  the  nuptials, 
look  out  for  a  duel,  etc.  Furthermore,  should  any 
misguided  individual  be  led  to  question  the  ac 
curacy  of  the  forthcoming  narrative,  wherein  is 
told,  in  a  straightforward  manner,  the  first  ap 
pearance  of  man,  moulded  from  the  brown  earth; 
afterward,  from  a  rib  taken  from  his  side  was 
fashioned  the  woman — his  companion  and  help 
meet  ;  subsequent  treachery  of  their  mutual  friend, 
"The  Serpent";  startling  adventures  of  Jubal, 
"the  first-born";  whereat  is  related  the  circum 
stances  as  connected  with  taking  the  innkeeper's 
eldest  daughter  to  wife;  the  graphic  story  of  the 
Deluge,  together  with  remarkable  events  along 
down  a  succession  of  ages,  until  at  last  the  dis 
covery  and  exhuming  of  the  long  hidden  remains 
of  the  author  of  the  history,  as  recorded  on  the 
silver  tablets.  To  all  these,  I  beg  leave  to  refer 
skeptical  people  to  the  Ancient  Mountain  Hut 
Dweller  for  confirmation,  as  he,  and  he  alone,  is 
responsible  for  their  truthfulness. 

Yours  truly, 
(Signed)  JOSEPH  LINDLEY,  Lawyer. 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT.       35 


PART  FIRST. 
CHAPTER  VII. 

PARADISE. 

(As  translated  from  the  Silver  Tablets.) 

'TWAS  a  charming  scene,  as  night's  silvery  veil 
hung  low  on  Eden's  lovely  bosom.  Twilight  shades 
giving  place  to  evening's  deepening  gloom,  partially 
relieved  by  the  yellow  rays  of  the  newly  risen  moon, 
her  brilliant  beams  both  softening  and  enhancing 
the  glories  of  the  enchanting  spectacle.  The  firma 
ment  all  aglow  with  myriads  of  flashing  gems,  that 
lent  an  additional  charm,  as  looking  down  on  a 
world  but  just  emerged  from  out  thick  darkness 
that  so  lately  hovered  over  and  enveloped  its  en 
tire  surface.  Thus,  the  Master  having  finished  all 
to  his  liking,  rests.  The  declining  sun  on  this 
the  sixth  and  last  day,  witnessing  the  completion 
of  his  labors,  and  while  the  vast  immensity  of 
space  is  thickly  studded  with  flashing  gems — sup 
posedly  other  worlds.  This,  the  last,  notably  the 
least,  yet,  withal,  the  best — because  its  proportions 
are  of  the  utmost  symmetry,  its  architecture  the 
very  acme  of  perfection. 

The  night  advances,  passes  away,  and  morn  ap 
proaches,  ushering  in  another,  the  seventh  day — 


36       THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

a  day  wherein  all  labor  shall  cease,  wherein  all  may 
rest. 

Anon,  the  source  of  light,  that  glorious  orb, 
the  Sun,  fresh  from  the  Master's  hand,  rises.  Its 
golden  beams  illuminating  and  flashing  o'er  hill 
and  dale.  The  heavens  are  all  aglow  in  the  bril 
liant  setting. 

But  what  a  glorious  scene,  on  which  the  eye 
rests;  be  it  of  supernal,  or  mortal  vision,  for  sin 
hath  not  yet  entered,  leaving  its  blighting  influ 
ence.  No  curse  hath  fallen,  therefore  all  is  now 
in  readiness  for  the  advent  of  one  in  the  Master's 
image — he  to  take  full  and  complete  charge,  hav 
ing  dominion  over  every  living  thing,  animate  or 
inanimate ;  human  or  brute ;  and  ere  the  setting  of 
another  sun,,  to  assume  a  place  in  the  economy  of 
nature  but  a  little  removed  from  the  heavenly 
hosts  above. 

As  the  day  advances,  the  mists  of  the  early 
dawn  give  way  before  the  enlivening  beams  of  the 
now  well  risen  orb,  whose  brilliant  rays  reveal  to 
the  onlooker — were  there  such — what  and  of 
whom? 

A  form,  herculean  of  build,  yet  of  the  most 
exquisite  symmetry,  of  immense  height,  yet  finely 
proportioned,  a  head  massive,  though  shapely,  locks 
of  midnight  hue,  eyes  that  scintillate  in  their  in 
tensity,  yet  mild  in  expression.  The  skin  of  a  red 
dish  cast.  The  form  in  nature's  garb,  yet,  withal, 
one  may  readily  discern  in  this,  the  Master's  last, 
yet  noblest  handiwork.  The  first  man  moulded, 
and  fashioned  from  the  "dust  of  the  earth." 

This  man,  reclining  on  a  moss-grown  bank,  for 
this  was  his  only  couch;  underneath,  tiny  rivulets 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN"  HERMIT.   37 

sparkling  waters ;  overhead,  drooping,  nigh  to  the 
ground,  leaf-laden  bough  and  flowering  bush,  with 
petals  opening  to  the  sun's  early,  yet  invigorat 
ing  rays. 

The  man  seems  lost  in  thought,  evidently  ab 
sorbed  in  contemplation  of  the  strange  scenes 
wherewith  he  is  surrounded,  or,  perchance,  in 
startled  wonderment,  as  to  whence  he  came,  and 
whither  bound. 

On  the  man's  right,  and  but  little  way  removed, 
crouches  a  Nubian  lion.  To  the  left,  and  on  whose 
magnificent  form  an  arm  rests,  lies  a  Bengal  tiger. 
Both  the  lion  and  tiger  in  an  expectant  rather 
than  apprehensive  attitude,  their  eyes  are  never 
for  an  instant  turned  away. 

On  the  thither  bank  of  the  rivulet,  basking 
under  the  sun's  heated  rays,  lies  in  voluminous 
coils  as  though  meditating  a  sudden  spring,  an 
enormous  serpent.  From  its  attitude  one  would 
have  concluded  it  was  sleeping,  though  this  was 
dispelled  upon  seeing  the  eyes,  glittering  in  their 
malignity,  peer  cautiously  forth  between  half- 
opened  lids  and  gaze  fixedly  on  the  reclining  form. 

Stretching  away  in  the  far  distance,  may  be 
seen  representatives  of  the  entire  animal  kingdom, 
among  which  may  be  reckoned  the  elephant,  mas 
todon,  zebra,  camel,  and  a  host  of  lesser  note,  all 
dwelling  together  in  amity,  peace,  love,  harmony 
and  kindly  regard,  having  as  yet  not  given  way 
to  antipathies  engendered  by  unchecked  passion 
and  fostered  through  ferocious  hate. 

Here,  too,  may  be  seen  the  feathered  tribes;  for 
away  up  in  yon  azure  vault  is  the  great  condor, 
winging  his  way  to  some  lonely  mountain  crag;  at 


38      THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

lesser  height,  sweeping  in  ever  narrowing  circles, 
sails  the  bald  eagle,  while  from  lowly  thicket  and 
towering  bush,  rise  songs  of  melody,  intermingled 
with  quack  of  duck,  cronk  of  goose,  discordant 
note  of  blue-jay,  chattering  magpie,  croak  of  buz 
zard  and  crow,  and  from  out  the  neighboring  wood, 
shrill  note  of  quail,  and  boom  of  drumming  par 
tridge. 

Again,  look  away  over  to  yon  horizon's  misty 
verge,  where  sporting  on  the  blue  sea  wave,  are  seen 
the  spouting  whale  and  shark,  with  many  another 
deep  sea  monster,  while  on  the  sluggish  streams 
spanning  Paradise,  we  behold  the  great  behemoth, 
log-like  crocodile  and  alligator,  each  in  its  sphere 
content  and  happy. 

The  skies,  too,  are  of  a  pure,  translucent  blue. 
The  clouds  even  take  on  a  hue  like  unto  golden 
sheafs,  the  air  charged  with  rarest  odors.  The 
plains  abounding  with  fruits  and  flowers — in  them 
selves,  a  wealth  of  nature's  rarest  gifts  to  man's 
enjoyment  given — all  these  fresh  and  new  from  the 
Master's  hand  divine. 

Such  was  Paradise,  ere  the  blighting  influence 
of  sin  had  entered  its  sacred  percincts ;  such  would 
the  world  be  now,  were  sin  eliminated. 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT.       39 


CHAPTER  VIII. 

FASHIONING   THE   WOMAN. 

THE  head  of  the  form  reclining  on  the  mossy 
bank,  droops,  falls,  the  entire  being  lies  motion 
less,  outstretched.  The  eyes  are  closed,  no  signs 
of  life  apparent  other  than  stentorian  respiration, 
for  slumber  hath  enchained  its  every  sense  and 
feeling. 

Thus,  through  the  live-long  day,  the  apparently 
lifeless  form  reposes,  the  shades  of  night  bringing 
no  change.  Meanwhile,  all  is  still.  Nature,  like 
the  prostrate  form,  is  in  a  state  of  repose,  yet  not 
entirely  so,  for  floating  on  the  evening  air,  one  lis 
tens  to  the  gently  murmuring  rivulet,  all  other 
sounds  are  held  in  abeyance,  for  an  act  is  to  be 
performed. 

Morn  draweth  nigh;  the  majestic  orb,  conse 
crated  to  a  world's  illumination,  rises  from  away 
beyond  the  distant  hills,  the  shades  of  night  flee 
before  the  brilliant  radiance,  the  chill  air  of  early 
morn  dissolves  under  his  searching  beams. 

Birds  of  every  feather  flit  from  twig  to  branch. 
Again  are  heard  rising  from  sedgy  pool  quack  of 
duck  and  cronk  of  goose,  while  from  the  far-away 
wood  is  heard  the  panthers'  fierce  cry,  lions' 
roar,  bark  of  wolf,  along  with  a  great  multitude 


40       THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

of  sounds  common  to  animate  existence.  Thus 
nature  waked  to  consciousness — life  and  activity 
resume  their  normal  sway. 

For  what  good  reason  hath  this  newly  created 
being  thus  reposed  the  day  and  night  through? 
What  cause  assigned  for  the  deep  unconscious  slum 
ber  ?  Surely  a  problem  of  easy  solution,  when  one 
comprehends  the  significance  of  a  transaction  that 
has  taken  place,  for  during  the  silent  watches  of  the 
night,  a  rib  hath  been  removed  and  transformed 
unto  a  living,  breathing,  sentient  being. 

The  long  confined  limbs  are  stretched  to  their  ut 
most  tension,  the  figure  assumes  an  erect  posture, 
the  while  in  a  singular  state  of  wonderment,  as  to 
what  enchantment  or  other  potent  influence  hath 
so  inveigled  else  beguiled  the  senses. 

Anon,  the  drowsy  eyes  partially  open,  followed 
by  an  eager,  enquiring  gaze,  but,  on  what,  and 
on  whom  do  his  eyes  rest  ?  A  counterpart  of  him 
self  ?  Hardly,  for  here  is  a  figure,  in  some  respects 
very  like  his  own,  in  others  quite  dissimilar. 

Long  does  he  gaze  on  the  beautiful  creature  until 
so  overcome  and  startled,  so  enthralled  his  every 
sense  and  faculty,  so  convulsed  his  emotions,  that 
he  thinks  to  flee  the  angelic  presence,  and  when 
about  to  turn  away,  suddenly  bethinks  himself, 
in  that  inquiry  were  not  out  of  place,  yet  ere  he 
has  time  to  frame  a  single  sentence,  a  hand  is  placed 
on  his  shoulder,  yet  of  such  gentle  touch,  he 
scarcely  heeds  the  pressure,  at  the  same  time  his 
glowing  orbs  confronted  by  those  of  heavenly  blue, 
beaming  in  anxious  inquiry,  then,  in  ecstacy  of  de 
light,  accentuated  by  a  smile  of  winning  tenderness 
— and  as  the  lovely  being  gazes,  a  return  look  of 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.       41 

welcome  greets  her  astonished  vision,  for  mate  hath 
found  its  mate,  and  all  is  well.  However,  before 
their  minds  are  so  composed  as  to  exchange  mu 
tual  confidence,  a  voice  thunderous  in  volume,  yet 
modulated  to  the  gentlest  expression,  speaks: 

"My  son,  thou  wert  lonely.  I  give  to  thee  a 
companion.  Thou  needeth  assistance;  behold  thy 
helpmate. 

"Dost  ask  from  whence  she  came,  for  answer? 
During  the  silent  watches  of  the  past  night,  I 
caused  thee  to  fall  in  deep  sleep,  and  while  thy 
slumbering  faculties  were  steeped  in  heavenly  vis 
ions,  the  gates  above  were  cast  ajar,  because  of 
this  maiden  offering  herself  in  sacrifice  to  thy  wel 
fare,  and  that  thou  mayest  have  better  understand 
ing  relative  to  the  inestimable  treasure  thou  hast 
secured,  likewise,  in  what  manner,  I  would  have 
thee  to  know  this : 

"That  from  thy  side  I  didst  take  a  rib,  fashioning 
the  maiden  therefrom;  therefore  she  is  now  'Bone 
of  thy  bone,  and  flesh  of  thy  flesh/  See  to  it,  then, 
ye  guard  her  well.  Be  to  her  a  shield  in  time  of 
peril,  a  helper  in  trouble,  protecting  her  from 
foes  without,  and  foes  within,  so  that  she  be  not 
led  astray,  nor  from  thy  side  depart,  for  of  verity, 
temptations  sore  will  oft  time  beset  her.  Be  to  her 
then  an  ark  of  refuge,  and  if  so  be  at  any  time  she 
flee  to  thee  for  protection,  turn  not  from  her ;  on  the 
contrary,  let  her  find  in  thee  a  friend  in  need. 
Furthermore,  I  would  have  thee  to  know  this:  that 
all  thou  seest,  is  thine,  beasts  of  whatsoever  kind 
or  degree,  the  fowl  that  flieth  in  the  air,  the  fish 
that  swims  in  the  sea,  over  all  these  do  I  give  thee 
dominion;  likewise  the  fruits  of  the  garden,  all — 


42      THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN"  HERMIT. 

save  one — are  thine,  and  of  -which  thou  mayest 
freely  partake. 

"Seest  thou  yon  tree,  freighted  with  the  choicest 
of  all  that  groweth  in  the  garden?  On  this  thou 
mayest  look,  but  not  touch,  neither  thou  nor  the 
woman,  for  in  the  day  thou  doeth  the  wicked  thing, 
in  that  day  thou  shalt  die,  for  in  this  garden  I 
have  planted  all  thou  requireth,  for  delight  and  en 
joyment. 

"Sickness  nor  pain  nor  trouble  of  any  sort,  storm, 
tempest  and  the  pestilence  that  walketh  by  noon 
day,  of  all  these  thou  shalt  not  have  knowledge, 
neither  thou,  nor  they  that  come  after.  See  to  it 
then  thou  obeyest  these,  my  commands,  lest  ill  be 
tide  thee." 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT.       43 


CHAPTER  IX. 

PARADISE  IN"  ITS  FULL  MEANING. 

DURING  the  foregoing  interview  with  the  Mas 
ter,  the  pair  have  stood  with  bowed  heads  and  down 
cast  eyes,  but  now  in  full  expectation  of  again  en 
countering  the  gaze  of  the  divine  being  who  has 
so  placed  it  in  their  power  to  be  supremely  happy, 
they  raise  their  heads  and  eyes,  only  to  find  them 
selves  alone.  The  Master  has  silently  and  suddenly 
departed. 

The  newly  awakened  pair,  absorbed  in  contem 
plation  of  the  words  to  which  they  have  just  lis 
tened,  and  to  which  'twere  well  they  give  heed, 
remain  for  a  time  spell-bound,  for  strive  as  they 
may,  their  minds  are  still  bent  on  the  mysterious 
tree,  the  fruit  of  which  is  so  urgently  forbidden, 
though  as  yet  no  misgivings  assail  them,  for  they 
indulge  no  thought  of  disobedience  because  not  dis 
posed  to  go  contrary  to  the  Master's  wishes. 

Thus,  for  a  time,  they  wander, — Paradise,  in 
its  full  meaning,  beginning  to  dawn  on  their  be 
wildered  senses — too  happy  within  themselves,  to 
question  the  meaning,  too  much  absorbed  in  the  de 
lights  with  which  they  are  surrounded,  to  antici 
pate  the  result. 

Thus  roaming  at  will,  the  most  sequestered  and 


44       THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

out-of-the-way  places  engaging  their  attention — 
for  this  is  the  first,  and  thus  far  the  only  oppor 
tunity  presented  for  extended  survey  of  their  newly 
acquired  possessions — until  at  length  wearied,  they 
turn  back  to  the  original  trysting  place — "the 
mossy  grown  hank" — where  for  a  time  in  uncon 
strained  converse  they  linger,  the  one  engrossing 
theme — "the  forbidden  fruit."  To  this,  however, 
they  would  hardly  have  given  a  thought  were  it 
not  for  the  stern  command:  "Of  this  tree,  thou 
must  not  partake." 

Communing  in  this  manner,  their  attention  is 
ere  long  drawn  to  the  strange  movements  of  their 
friend,  the  Serpent,  who  though  heretofore  unseen, 
has  nevertheless  been  an  interested  listener  to  the 
Master's  warnings,  and  is  now  observed  crawling 
away  and  casting  now  and  then  a  backward  glance 
fearful  that  his  presence  at  the  late  interview  with 
the  Master,  may  possibly  have  been  noticed,  hence, 
as  a  natural  sequence,  his  motive  understood.  More 
over,  the  treacherous  friend  and  former  ally  is  at 
this  precise  moment  meditating  an  act  whereby  his 
friends  must  perforce  become  his  bitterest  enemies. 

Not  that  he  is  especially  anxious  for  this  re 
sult,  but  that,  as  he  imagines,  he  has  wrongs  to  be 
righted,  whereupon  he  enters  on  soliloquy  thus : 
"Aha,  my  friend,  methinks  it  goes  without  saying, 
that  henceforth  my  every  energy  shall  be  directed 
— no  matter  how  unpropitious  the  outcome — to  set 
ting  things  to  rights,  at  the  same  time  unmindful 
as  to  who  shall  be  the  greatest  sufferer,  and  woe 
to  they,  who  in  any  manner  whatsoever,  attempt 
to  stand  in  my  way  or  thrust  me  aside. 

"Why  the  Master  should  have  deigned  to  give 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.       45 

the  simpleton  not  only  dominion  over  the  beasts 
of  the  field,  but  every  living  creature — including 
myself,  of  course, — passeth  my  comprehension. 
Why,  then,  I  ask,  was  I  left  out  of  the  compact? 
Why  overlooked  in  the  controversy,  when  every  one 
can  but  know  'twas  my  due,  likewise  my  right  to  be 
invited  along  with  the  others,  to  hold  consultation  ? 
Yet,  come  to  think,  maybe  I  was  not  considered 
worthy  of  the  honor  nor  of  his  majesty's  confidence 
— Majesty,  indeed,  when  he  is  considered  by  every 
one  that  knows  him  to  be  my  inferior. 

"Ha !  a  thought  doth  strike  me,  in  this,  that  they 
doubtless  think  to  hoodwink  me,  regarding  these 
wondrously  important  affairs.  However,  we  shall 
see — let  it  all  pass,  I'll  e'en  give  the  troublesome 
matter  no  farther  thought,  nor  lie  awake  o'  nights, 
but  all  the  same,  hie  me  to  my  den,  there  conjure 
some  scheme  whereby  to  entrap  the  lovely  maiden 
— he,  I  care  nothing  for — but  she !  I'll  so  fascinate, 
so  beguile,  Ha !  ha ! — that  she  will  leave  all,  after 
ward  turn  to  me,  heeding  my  every  wish,  doing  my 
every  bidding,  else,  shall  her  doom  be  sealed.  Of 
her  own  seeking,  however,  leastwise,  I'll  make  it  so 
appear.  Meantime,  present  my  case  to  the  Master 
in  such  a  light,  that  it  will  at  once  be  accepted,  and 
that  without  question.  Moreover,  I  will  bring  to 
bear  such  powerful  temptations,  so  compromise  the 
fair  one  in  the  eyes  of  him  she  doth  so  glibly  call 
'Lord/ — that  is  to  say,  the  one  that  doth  lay  claim 
to  rule  her — that  in  the  end  she  must  become  in 
very  truth  my  slave,  powerless  to  avert,  or  in 
any  manner  whatsoever  change  her  fate,  for  my 
wiles  she  cannot  escape;  and  then,  too,  'this  for 
bidden  fruit,'  why,  it's  nothing  more  than  a  fool- 


46       THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEKMIT. 

ish  threat,  for  what  careth  the  Master  for  one  tree 
more  than  another  ? 

"I  will  so  cover  my  tracks,  my  designs  so  con 
ceal  that  the  Master  himself  cannot  help  but  be 
deceived,  then  will  he  hold  me  guiltless  of  wrong 
doing.  Meantime  the  man  cast  out  from  the  gar 
den,  what's  to  hinder  me  from  taking  his  place  as 
ruler  therein,  and  should  he  be  so  inclined  as  to 
question  by  what  right  I  usurp  his  place,  I  will  for 
answer  say:  'Thou  wouldst  none  of  me  in  thy 
counsels,  I  was  not  even  bidden  to  attend,  for 
this  slight  on  mine  honor,  thus  my  good  name 
imperilled/  for  all  this  I  say,  'thou  shalt  suffer. 
Yea,  I  will  be  avenged.  Deep,  deadly,  shall  it  be ; 
then  will  my  wrongs  be  righted,  my  good  name 
restored,  my  honor  retrieved/ '' 

'Twas  thus  the  Serpent  meditated,  it  was  in  this 
manner  the  false  friend  studied  injury  to  his  best 
friends.  Meanwhile,  the  innocent,  unsuspecting 
objects  of  his  wrath  have  turned  away  and  are  now 
strolling  through  the  by-paths  of  the  garden,  wholly 
unconscious  of  the  trap  so  ingeniously  set  and  skill 
fully  baited,  and  into  which  they  must  inevitably 
fall." 

Thus  wandering,  they  arrive  at  the  more  se 
cluded  portions  of  the  garden,  the  intricate  ways 
disclosing  new  beauties  at  each  onward  step.  The 
while  in  full  enjoyment  of  the  delights  so  lavishly 
spread  around,  and  the  wondrous  scenes  momently 
brought  to  view,  for  here  were  two  hearts  beating  in 
unison,  two  souls  in  perfect  harmony,  hence  the  un 
constrained  felicity. 

They  pluck  of  the  choicest  fruits,  they  eat  to 
repletion — ever  and  anon,  casting  backward  glances 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.       47 

toward  the  forbidden  tree,  but  never  for  an  in 
stant  failing  in  remembrance  of  the  Master's  in 
junction. 

The  Serpent  chanced  the  next  morning  to  en 
counter  the  object  of  his  insane  affection — little 
chance  about  it,  for  the  consummate  rascal  was 
on  the  lookout,  watching  her  every  movement. 

Thus  sauntering  along  the  mossy  bank  of  the 
silvery  stream,  now  and  then  halting  to  pluck 
some  more  than  ordinary  choice  flower,  else,  per 
mitting  her  enraptured  gaze  to  rest  on  the  beaute 
ous  form  mirrored  in  its  crystal  depths,  for  of  a 
thousand  and  one  none  so  charming.  Alas !  fatal 
gifts,  fatal  charms,  not  alone  to  her,  but  to  the 
whole  world  as  well;  yet,  notwithstanding  these 
charms  and  gifts,  the  Serpent,  whose  jealous  fan 
cies,  largely  intensified  by  ill-concealed  desire,  re 
solved  to  present  an  outwardly  friendly  mien,  so  on 
meeting,  accosts  her  in  kindly  greeting — the  words 
flowing  from  his  forked  tongue  in  pleasing  ac 
cents,  and  tender  expression — for  when  so  minded, 
his  voice  could  be  attuned  to  the  sweetest  melody, 
but  when  angered,  the  words  were  hissed  forth ;  yet 
now,  having  a  specific  object  in  view,  would  let 
nothing  drop  from  his  lips  savoring  of  enmity.  So 
began  by  saying:  "Maiden  of  the  golden  locks, 
countenance  bespeaking  a  tender  heart,  mien,  both 
modest  and  winsome.  Thou,  the  last,  yet  noblest 
of  the  Master's  handiwork.  Thou,  who  harbor- 
est  within  thy  fair  bosom  naught  but  purity,  and 
that  hath  no  place  for  guile,  whose  soul  art  over 
flowing  with  generous  impulses,  among  which  are 
love,  hope  and  charity,  these  pervading  thy  every 
thought — I  wouldst,  if  it  so  please  thee,  for  a  few 


48       THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

brief  moments  bespeak  tby  attention.  Yea,  I  would 
utter  words  of  wisdom,  and  for  thy  ear  alone — 
words,  I  ween,  tending  to  thy  best  welfare;  at  the 
same  time,  I  do  solemnly  swear,  that  what  I  am 
about  to  say  to  thee,  hath  no  selfish  motive,  on  the 
contrary,  it  is  to  thy  own  best  interests,  because 
thou  art  imperilled,  maybe,  thy  life  in  jeopardy. 
To  this  end,  and  for  these  reasons  alone,  do  I  desire 
to  hold  communion  with  thee." 

"My  interests  imperilled  ?  My  life  in  jeopardy  ?" 
the  maiden  exclaims.  "What  mean  thee,  good 
friend  ?  Why  should  I  be  thus  troubled  ?" 

"Dost  know,  fair  maid,  this  man  to  whom  the 
Master  hath  given  thee  can  in  nowise  be  compared 
to  him  who  doth  so  earnestly  plead  for  thy  love  ? 
Dost  know  this,  fair  one,  I  repeat?  Ah,  why  so 
hesitate;  thy  form  doth  tremble,  thou  art  ill  at 
ease,  as  one  far  less  skilled  in  diplomacy  may  read 
ily  discern;  nevertheless,  I  am  equally  positive,  thou 
art  not  altogether  satisfied  with  thy  choice — 
though,  I'll  warrant,  thou  hadst  little  enough  to 
do  with  the  choosing.  Why,  do  but  look  on  me, 
then  ask  thyself,  'If  my  complexion  be  not  wholly 
unlike  his — a  dull  brick  red — while  as  to  mine,  it 
glisteneth  in  the  sunlight,  like  unto  the  finest 
spun  silk.  Scales,  like  unto  burnished  silver;  then 
again  behold  my  elongated  form  with  a  crushing 
force  none  can  withstand;  then  look  at  my  head, 
flat  and  tapering,  'tis  true,  yet  of  how  much  better 
shape  than  his  ugly  pate  ?  Orbs,  too,  that  glow  in 
similitude  of  sparkling  gems.  Dost  comprehend, 
fair  one,  these  my  sayings  ?  If  so,  then  look  on  the 
other  picture.  Form  singularly  uncouth,  standing 
on  two  feet  only,  at  either  extremity  projections, 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.       49 

denominated  'toes/ — surely  a  poor  foundation 
whereon  to  rest,  especially  when  compared  with, 
one  whose  whole  length  doth  rest  on  solid  ground, 
and  while  yon  monstrosity  doth  presume  to  hold 
his  head  so  high,  mine  on  occasion,  can  easily  over 
top  it. 

"Again,  look  at  the  creature's  head.  Out  of 
all  proportion  to  the  rest  of  his  body,  and  covered 
with  bristly,  tan  colored  locks,  but  when  one  comes 
to  examine  the  face,  matted  over  with  a  long, 
coarse  beard,  which  were  it  not  so  artfully  con 
cealed,  would,  I'll  warrant,  reveal  an  ugliness,  you, 
yourself,  with  all  your  charity,  could  not  well 
abide,  and  last,  but  by  no  means  least,  we  come 
to  the  eyes,  overhung  with  brows,  one  can  compare 
to  nothing  less  than  a  tangled  pile  of  brushwood. 

"Once  more,  the  monster's  skin,  a  dingy  red — 
and  why  not,  when  the  ugly  creature  was  fash 
ioned  from  the  very  dust  of  the  earth  on  which 
thy  shapely  feet  do  at  this  moment  stand. 

"Lovely  one,  how,  in  the  name  of  goodness,  can 
thou  abide  such  an  unkempt  being,  especially  when 
better  ones  are  to  be  had  for  the  asking?  Dost 
understand,  fair  one?  Then  why  not  give  ear  to 
words  of  wisdom,  for  I  do  swear  they  are  naught 
but  the  truth. 

"Most  winsome  and  lovely  of  all  created  objects, 
have  compassion  on  one  who  doth  so  urgently  plead 
his  cause.  See,  he  crawls  at  thy  feet,  bows  his  head 
in  the  dust,  yea,  doth  implore,  entreat  and  per 
sistently  sue  for  thy  good  will. 

"Wilt  thou  not,  then,  flee  from  one  who,  now  thy 
servant  may,  and  doubtless  will,  ere  the  passage  of 
many  suns,  have  become  master,  thou  in  turn  his 


50       THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

servant — peradventure,  slave — come  to  me,  then, 
and  it  shall  go  hard  with  me,  do  I  not  lift  thee  to 
the  topmost  pinnacle  of  fame.  Riches  and  honor 
shall  be  thine.  All  the  world  holdeth  in  store  will 
come  at  thy  behest,  all  bow  at  thy  feet. 

"Thou  shalt  go  forth  conquering  and  to  con 
quer.  Leading  captive  whomsoever  thou  wilt,  for 
none  will  behold  but  to  admire;  moreover,  thy  form 
shall  be  decked  in  a  garb,  not  one  whit  inferior 
to  my  own  and  to  all  these  I  will  add  gems  and 
precious  stones.  Diamonds  of  the  first  water  de 
pend  from  thine  cars,  bands  of  virgin  gold  encircle 
thy  arms,  while  on  thy  chestnut  locks  a  crown  in 
terspersed  with  brilliants. 

"On  the  other  hand,  turn  from  me — as  thou 
seemest  about  to  do — all  the  sorrows  possible  and 
more  than  thou  canst  well  conceive,  much  less  with 
stand,  shall  be  visited  on  thy  head.  In  lieu  of 
diamonds  and  precious  stones,  thou  wilt  be  only 
too  glad  to  take  up  with  the  commoner  sort — if, 
perchance,  thou  art  fortunate  enough  to  possess 
even  these — instead  of  garb  like  mine  own,  the 
coarser  raiment  will  best  befit  thy  lowly  station. 

"These  hands,  so  soft  and  white,  will,  from  ex 
cessive  and  long  sustained  toil,  become  black,  and 
hardened.  These  tapering  fingers,  instead  of  be 
ing  encircled  with  golden  bands,  will,  from  out 
door  labor,  become  calloused,  hard  and  blunted. 
Thy  countenance,  now  bright  and  winsome,  will 
have  taken  on  a  dulled,  repulsive  expression.  The 
light  that  now  in  splendor  beams  from  out  those 
charming  eyes,  thus  revealing  their  crystal  depths, 
will  have  departed,  never  more  to  return. 

"Thy  complexion,  comparing  favorably  with  the 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.       51 

full-blown  rose,  will  give  place  to  a  hue  very 
like  the  dust  brown  earth.  In  short,  all  thy  beauty 
gone,  who  so  poor  as  to  do  thee  reverence?  Fi 
nally,  and  to  sum  all  up,  the  curse  so  lavishly 
bestowed  on  thee,  in  case  thou  refuseth  the  terms 
so  generously  and  unselfishly  offered,  shall  not  fall 
alone  on  thee,  but  to  all  who  come  after." 

This  last  sentence  barely  uttered,  when  with 
out  an  instant  warning,  there  comes  a  flash  of 
lightning,  quickly  succeeded  by  thunder  roll.  The 
heavens  darkened  as  at  midnight,  and  a  voice 
speaks  the  one  word,  "Beware." 


52       THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 


CHAPTEE  X. 

INTERVIEW   BETWEEN   THE   MAIDEN   AND   THE   SER 
PENT    CONTINUED. 

DURING  this  interview,  the  maiden  has  remained 
a  passive  listener,  the  Serpent  on  his  part  main 
taining  his  usual  outward  composure — though  in 
wardly  chafing,  from  the  fact  that  his  hearer  seems 
so  little  affected,  for  storm  and  threaten  as  he 
may,  he  readily  perceives  that  neither  the  one 
nor  the  other  in  the  least  moves  her.  Further 
more,  should  the  wily  villain  resort  to  argument 
or  even  entreaty,  both  would  be  equally  thrown 
away,  for  nothing  he  says  seems  to  find  lodgment 
in  her  heart.  Therefore,  he  is  considerably  cast 
down,  and  were  the  truth  told,  not  a  little  fright 
ened.  The  late  thunderings  contributing  to  that 
end,  at  the  same  time  deeming  it  unpolitic  to 
give  way  to  his  fears,  which  may  prove  unfounded, 
he  still  believes  it  the  wiser  course  to  assume  a  bold 
front,  thereupon  breaking  forth: 

"Ha,  the  Master  speaks,  but,  methinks,  'twere 
better  He  make  use  of  gentler  tone  rather  than 
bellow  in  this  unseemly  fashion,  for  shout  He  ever 
so  loud,  thunder  as  He  may,  and  hide  the  sun 
light  as  He  will,  His  lordship  well  knows  I  am  not 
easily  frightened.  Likewise  the  powers  I  wield 
are  but  little  inferior  to  His  own.  More  than  this,. 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.       5£ 

it  seemeth  passing  strange,  His  majesty  should  thus 
stoop  to  interfere  between  the  maiden  and  me.  Yet, 
have  her  I  will,  and  who  shall  say  me  Nay !" 

Alas,  the  guileless,  warm-hearted  creature  has 
yet  to  learn  the  true  meaning  of  "Good  and  Evil," 
for  treachery  and  deceit  are  at  this  moment 
brought  to  bear  not  only  to  her  discomfiture 
but  her  downfall  as  well,  so  with  agitated  tones 
and  trembling  lips,  she  replies,  giving  this  for  an 
swer  : 

"Good  friend,  and  true — as  I  had  always  sup 
posed — didst  thou  have  the  will  to  do  all  this, 
thou  hast  not,  methinks,  the  power." 

"Power  !"  quoth  the  Serpent.  "Who,  let  me  ask, 
hath  greater?  Have  I  not  shown  thee  that  I  am 
second  only  in  command,  thus  endowed  with 
the  power  for  'good  and  evil'  ?  Know  ye  not  this,. 
I  repeat?  Which,  let  me  ask,  the  greater — that 
which  maketh  for  good  or  that  for  evil?  and  as 
the  Master  holdeth  undisputed  title  to  the  one, 
so  do  I  to  the  other,  as  I'll  not  be  slow  in  showing 
thee,  do  ye  not  heed  my  behests. 

"Behold,  beloved  one,  the  fruit,  this  so-called 
apple  plucked  but  a  few  moments  since  from  yon 
der  tree.  See,  how  fair  it  is  to  look  upon,  but 
how  much  better  to  the  taste;  but  see  how  golden 
its  hue,  how  sweet  its  fragrance,  very  like  to  the 
rose;  yet  taste,  and  then  will  thine  eyes  be  opened, 
all  the  blessings  I've  foretold  follow  thy  lead ;  more 
over,  all  thou  canst  in  any  manner  desire,  nay,  all 
thou  chooseth  to  ask — even  to  riches  and  honor — 
shall  be  thine,  and  that  which  is  more  to  the  pur 
pose,  thou  shalt  be  endowed  with  the  knowledge 
of  'good  and  evil,'  and  still  more,  thou  shalt  be 


54      THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

as  the  gods — I  also — for  whatsoever  tendeth  to 
thy  welfare,  in  that  will  I  share. 

"Taste  then,  I  do  beseech  thee,  yea,  taste  of  this 
fragrant  apple,  the  best  of  all  the  garden,  then, 
wilt  thou  find  all  that  I  have  said,  naught  but  the 
truth." 

The  guileless  maiden  little  suspects  the  outward 
fair  seeming  of  the  one  with  whom  she  is  holding 
converse  to  be  other  than  he  seems,  for  as  a  com 
panion,  he  has  universally  treated  her  with  the 
utmost  consideration  and  respect,  as  a  friend,  one 
in  whom  she  could  place  the  most  implicit  con 
fidence,  hence,  has  never  for  an  instant,  harbored 
the  thought  that  he  was  capable  of  betraying  her 
confidence,  nor  her  unqualified  trust  in  either,  but 
now  she  feels  that  she  has  good  reason  to  suspect 
his  avowals  of  unselfishness  and  denials  of  untruth 
as  merely  a  subterfuge  to  cover  his  duplicity  and 
thus  be  able  to  accomplish  his  wicked  designs ;  yet, 
did  she  but  know  the  true  facts  in  the  case  she 
would  without  hesitation  recognize  in  the  scamp 
the  so-called  "Father  of  Liars" — the  arch  fiend 
himself. 

The  maiden,  however,  hesitates.  Was  ever 
maiden  so  generously,  aye,  helplessly  tempted? 
Yet  the  one  condition,  "All  bow  to  thy  charms," 
seemed  to  settle  the  whole  matter,  for  she  no  longer 
hesitates — the  promise  is  too  weighty  to  be  over 
come.  She  tastes,  she  eats,  then  hastens  to  the 
man  with  countenance  expressive  of  the  great  joy 
within  her  and  carrying  the  joyous  news. 

"But,"  remonstrates  he,  in  response  to  her  urgent 
request,  "the  apple  is  forbidden;  remember  ye  not 
the  Master's  anathemas :  'In  the  day  ye  eat  thereof, 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN   HERMIT.       55 

in  that  day  ye  shall  surely  die'?  Thou  canst  not 
have  forgotten  them  so  soon." 

"But  taste,  my  lord.  That  was  only  a  foolish 
threat,  at  least  so  intimated  by  one  who  surely 
ought  to  know.  Xothing,  I'll  warrant,  meant  by  it, 
and  even  should  the  Master  be  angered,  He  will,  I 
I  am  positive,  be  only  too  glad  to  overlook  the  of 
fence — if  such  it  be — probably  forgive,  and,  what's 
more,  in  the  end  forget  about  it.  Why,  do  you 
know,"  she  expostulates,  "our  good  friend,  the 
Serpent,  the  very  soul  of  honor — anyhow,  that  is 
his  reputation — and  as  to  telling  an  untruth,  why, 
I'd  stake  my  life  upon  his  veracity." 

Like  unto  the  woman,  the  man  hesitates;  indeed 
he  can  think  of  no  suitable  reply  to  make,  notably 
when  taking  in  account  the  injunction  of  the  Mas 
ter:  "Guard  her  from  foes  without  and  foes 
within." 


56       THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 


CHAPTER  XL 

THE   PENALTY    OF   DISOBEDIENCE. 

ON  this  supreme  moment  hangs  the  fate  of  a 
world,,  for  on  his  decision  is  determined  the  destiny 
of  all  future  generations. 

Again  the  woman  presents  the  apple,  holds  it  to 
his  mouth,  presses  it  to  his  lips ;  words  of  entreaty 
accompany  the  foolish  act,  an  expression  of  fondness 
lights  up  the  winsome  face,  again,  the  one  word — 
"Eat  r  ' 

The  man  hesitates  no  longer.  He  tastes,  eats — 
was  ever  fruit  so  delicious  ?  Ever  apple  of  so  fine 
flavor  ? 

The  deed  is  done,  a  world's  fate  decided.  But 
as  yet  no  thought  is  taken  of  the  penalty,  as  ad 
judged  by  the  Master :  "In  the  day  ye  eat  thereof, 
in  that  day,  ye  shall  surely  die."  But  no  harm  has 
yet  befallen  them.  The  skies  are  of  the  same  ceru 
lean  blue,  no  lightning  flash  hath  blinded  their 
eyes,  no  thunder  roll  assailed  their  ears ;  the  beams 
of  the  noonday  sun  still  flame  o'er  hill  and  dale, 
nor  do  they  hear  the  Master's  angered  voice. 

But  now  comes  a  reaction.  Why  these  troubled 
thoughts  ?  Why  these  forebodings  ?  Surely  not  of 
€vil,  else  'twould,  ere  this,  have  been  made  apparent. 
Nevertheless  a  change  has  taken  place,  for  their 
accustomed  cheerful  demeanor  gives  way  to  evil 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.       57 

surmisings ;  thus  $11  things  wear  a  different  aspect, 
for  their  eyes  are  turned  toward  each  other  in  ques 
tioning  glances.  The  while  the  woman's  face  suf 
fused  with  blushes,  his  glow  with  apprehension, 
and  now  comes  the  thought,  "Where,  oh,  where 
shall  I  turn  for  sympathy?"  For,  indeed,  it  was 
never  more  needed.  To  the  man  shall  she  turn? 
Nay,  for  he  is  in  not  one  whit  better  plight;  on 
the  contrary,  if  such  were  possible,  even  more  per 
plexed  than  she. 

Thus  for  a  time  they  remain,  their  hearts, 
through  fear,  momently  growing  cold,  their  minds 
filled  with  an  agony  of  dread. 

A  transformation  surely  hath  taken  place  !  Their 
once  happy  feelings  somehow  changed,  their  eyes 
are  gradually  opening  to  the  unwelcome  fact  that 
clothed  in  Nature's  garb  is,  to  say  the  least,  hardly 
in  good  taste,  and  it  begins  to  dawn  on  their  minds 
that  they  are  no  better  off  than  their  mute  neigh 
bors;  in  point  of  fact,  less  to  be  envied,  for  the 
"beasts  of  the  field"  are  clad  in  furs.  But  what 
shall  be  done?  A  moment's  hesitation,  and  they 
separate,  each  taking  a  different  route,  shortly  to 
appear  clothed  in  garments  of  leaves  plucked  from 
the  fig,  and  now  are  their  eyes  opened,  as  foretold ; 
they  are,  for  a  verity,  "gods,  knowing  good  from 
evil,"  but  in  what  respect  is  their  condition  bet 
tered?  Partaking  of  forbidden  fruit  has  proved 
not  only  a  source  of  knowledge,  but  of  misery  as 
well. 

Again,  hand  in  hand,  they  wander,  the  garden 
presenting  no  fewer  attractions,  yet  looked  upon  in 
a  very  different  light,  for  when  but  a  little  while 
before — in  Nature's  garb — their  hearts  were  light, 


58      THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

no  suspicion  of  anything  derogatory  to  their  good 
name  had  crossed  their  path,  no  thought  of  wrong 
doing  entered  their  minds,  whereas  doubt,  hesi 
tancy  and  secret  forebodings  now  control  their 
every  action. 

Yet,  hark!  Again  that  voice  in  thunderous 
tone;  again  that  lightning  flash  and  darkened 
heavens,  and  as  the  notes  echo  from  hill  to  hill — 
not  as  of  yore  in  melodious  rhythm,  but  in  angered 
tone — it  speaks :  "Orimentes,  where  art  thou  ?" 

How  is  it  that  he  whom  the  Master  calls  appears 
not  at  the  bidding;  rather  seeks  the  more  secluded 
parts  of  the  wood  ?  Why  doth  he  so  shun  the  Mas 
ter's  presence  ?  Alas !  the  cause  becomes  fully  ap 
parent  upon  true  interpretation  of  the  Master's 
injunction :  "In  the  day  ye  eat  thereof,  in  that  day, 
ye  shall  surely  die."  Likewise  the  promise  as  fore 
told  by  the  Serpent :  "Ye  shall  be  as  gods,  knowing 
good  from  evil/'  The  promise  is  fulfilled,  for  they 
have  in  very  truth  become  as  gods,  in  this  one 
respect  at  least  the  penalty  hath  been  adjudged, 
and  now  with  downcast  mien  and  bowed  head  Ori 
mentes  comes  forth  from  his  hiding. 

"Why  hast  thou  disobeyed,  thus  setting  at  de 
fiance  my  well-meant  command?"  exclaims  the 
Master.  "Was  it  not  enough  that  I  didst  promise 
thee  all  the  fruit  of  the  garden?  Why,  then, 
couldst  thou  not  have  been  content  therewith  ?" 

"Alas !  and  yet  alas !"  moans  the  convicted  cul 
prit,  "it  is  alone  the  fault  of  the  woman,  for  she 
not  only  placed  the  accursed  fruit  to  my  lips,  but 
didst  urge,  even  implored,  me  to  accept  of  it ;  more 
over,  'twas  from  her  hand  I  didst  take,  taste  and 
eat.  But,  Master,  be  not  wroth  with  thy  servant, 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.       59 

for  I  most  solemnly  promise  the  offence  shall  not 
be  repeated;  indeed,  I  will  never  again  hearken  to 
the  woman's  pleadings." 

For  answer:  "Call  the  woman,  for  I  would  test 
the  accuracy  of  thy  seemingly  absurd  statement; 
yet,  and  so  thou  attempt  to  deceive  me  through 
casting  aspersions  on  the  character  of  thy  com 
panion,  woe  be  to  thee  I" 

And  now  Orimentides,  the  woman,  comes  from 
out  the  wood,  whereunto  she  didst  likewise  flee,  and 
as  she  approaches  presents  a  far  more  woebegone  as 
pect  than  he,  but  when  confronted  with  the  charge, 
replies : 

"Master,  'twas  the  fault  of  our  old  friend,  the 
Serpent,  in  that  he  didst  so  beguile  me,  and  that 
against  my  will  and  better  judgment,  promising 
much  gold,  likewise  silver  and  precious  gems, 
meantime  stipulating  that  I  should  be  clad  in  rai 
ment  not  one  whit  inferior  to  his  own,  and  last,  but 
by  no  means  least,  'that  all  should  bow  to  my 
charms.' 

"Believing  him  sincere  in  his  protestations  of 
friendship,  I  therefore  considered  it  impossible  that 
he  could  so  demean  himself  as  to  deliberately  utter 
a  falsehood,  therein  counselling  unadvisedly,  why, 
Master,  how  could  I  do  otherwise  than  yield  ?  But, 
Master,  spare  us!  Spare  and  forgive,  for  of  a 
verity  I  was  the  victim  of  misplaced  confidence, 
therefore  unwittingly  led  astray,  and  so  I  begged 
Orimentes  to  partake;  and,  Master,  as  this  is  the 
first,  so  will  it  be  the  last  offence." 

"Wicked,  rebellious  subjects !"  exclaims  the  Mas 
ter.  "Did  I  not  give  thee  all,  yea,  even  more  than 
the  Serpent  promised?  Did  I  not  prepare  a  gar- 


60       THE  OLD  MOUXTAIX  HERMIT. 

den,  a  paradise,  wherein  peace  and  quietude  didst 
reign  supreme,  where  thou  and  thine  would  be  free 
from  storm,  pestilence  and  famine,  together  with 
the  trials  common  to  earthly  existence?  And  yet 
thou  must  needs,  on  the  first  opportunity  present 
ing,  disobey  my  just  and  lawful  demands  !  Verily, 
it  doth  repent  me  that  I  consented  to  make  man 
at  all,  and  I  am  minded  to  destroy  both  he  and 
all  that  hath  being,  in  order  the  ground  be  no  more 
cumbered  therewith.  However,  on  second  thought, 
I  will  give  thee  one  more  trial,  yet  under  less  favor 
able  conditions,  in  this,  that  thou  go  away  from 
this  delightsome  garden."  Then,  in  tones  pene 
trating  to  its  most  secluded  depths : 

"Orimentes,  whatsoever  thou  mayest  hereafter 
possess,  shall  be  gained  by  the  sweat  of  thy  brow, 
to  which  end  I  do  now  curse  the  ground  for  thy 
sake,  so  that  it  bring  forth  naught  other  than  by 
Ihe  hardest  labor.  Thorns  and  brambles  shall  beset 
thy  pathway,  thistles  spring  up  on  every  hand; 
turn  which  ever  way  thou  wilt  dangers  encompass 
thee  round  about. 

"The  wilderness  shall  be  thy  abiding  place,  the 
desert  thy  habitation,  tempest,  pestilence  and 
drought  thy  heritage;  all  the  woes  inseparable  to 
cast-off  humanity  shall  be  thy  portion." 

To  the  woman :  "Orimentides,  this  man  thou  wilt 
henceforth  follow,  he  the  master,  thou  the  servant, 
compelled  to  do  whatsoever  he  may  see  fit  to  de 
mand.  Thy  estate  pain,  grief  and  trouble,  inas 
much  as  thy  transgression,  as  thou  must  know,  is 
by  far  greater  than  his,  and  whatsoever  ills  may 
chance  to  visit  him,  will,  with  redoubled  force,  fall 
on  thee. 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.       61 

"Should  this  sentence  seem  hard  to  bear,  re 
member  'tis  of  thine  own  seeking,  for  thou  hast  not 
turned  aside  from  the  soul-destroying  attributes 
of  folly,  selfishness  and  undue  pride — this  latter 
trait  always  going  before  a  fall. 

"Take  heed,  then,  to  these  my  words ;  meantime, 
make  every  effort  to  conquer  thy  evil  desires,  lest, 
peradventure,  a  worse  fate  betide  thee,  for  'he  who 
diggeth  a  pit  for  another  shall  be  the  first  to  fall 
therein.'  And  yet  I  would  not  thou  suffer  alto 
gether  in  vain ;  on  the  contrary,  in  love  of  offspring 
and  family  ties  thou  shalt  find  both  comfort  and 
consolation,  hence  I  desire  thee  to  be  fruitful,  to 
the  end  thou  multiply  and  replenish  the  earth. 
And  now,  having  finished  with  thee,  I  would  a 
word  with  the  author  and  abettor  of  thy  misfor 
tune,"  who,  be  it  said,  with  forked  tongue,  glisten 
ing  eyes  and  uplifted  crest  holds  himself  aloof, 
coiled  at  the  root  of  a  majestic  oak,  and  while  an 
ticipating  his  fate,  at  this  supreme  moment  main 
tains  an  outward  semblance  of  unconcern,  at  the 
same  time,  green  with  envy,  largely  enhanced 
through  overweening  jealousy  because  forsooth, 
while  the  others  have  through  the  Master's  high 
regard,  received  sentence,  he  has  been  overlooked. 
Thus  in  the  Master's  estimate,  held  least,  else  why 
should  they,  equally  guilty,  have  preference? 

The  slimy  creature  is  no  longer  to  be  passed  by, 
however,  for  on  appearance,  in  response  to  the  call, 
the  Master,  in  a  voice  of  wrath,  exclaims : 

"Thou  vile  wretch,  to  whom  was,  at  thine  own 
request,  given  power  of  speech,  likewise  endowed 
with  all  known  attributes  of  evil,  therefore  wert 
adjudged  preference  over  all  the  beasts  of  the  field, 


62       THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

methinks  it  ill  becomes  one  holding  such  lofty  posi 
tion  to  thus  endeavor  to  overthrow  my  well-estab 
lished  laws,  particularly  when  thou  must  have 
known  the  consequences." 

The  Serpent,  on  the  point  of  lifting  up  his  voice 
in  expostulation,  or,  perhaps,  in  justification  of  the 
wrong  done,  whereby  his  late  companions  have 
suffered  irreparable  wrong,  is  quickly  silenced  upon 
hearing  condemnation  followed  by  speedy  sentence. 

Saith  the  Master:  "In  expiation  of  thy  wicked 
doings  I  do  hereby  take  from  thee  the  gift  of 
speech;  even  thy  feet  shall  be  removed,  thy  belly 
thine  only  support ;  furthermore,  to  make  thy  name 
a  byword  and  reproach  of  all  men,  thou  wilt  be 
despised  for  thy  meanness  and  held  up  in  derision 
by  every  living  creature.  Whithersoever  thou  goest 
every  hand  will  be  lifted  against  thee,  while  an  evil 
reputation  will  at  all  times  attend  thee,  for  none 
must  forget  that  under  thy  tongue  is  hidden  a 
venom;  from  which  they  you  chance  to  meet  will 
turn  aside,  shunning  thee  as  a  dangerous  charac 
ter;  yet,  that  they  be  made  aware  of  thy  presence, 
I  do  hereby  attach  a  signal  to  thy  posterior  for  the 
purpose  of  giving  warning  to  all  who  travel  thy 
way.  Farthermore,  attributes  of  evil  hitherto  ex 
ercised  alone  by  thee,  from  this  on  are  delegated 
to  another,  who  will  bear  the  cognomen  of  Satan, 
who,  often  under  guise  of  a  pleasing  exterior,  Jets 
not  his  identity  be  disclosed,  nor  even  his  character 
suspected,  hence,  the  more  to  be  feared. 

"Doth  question  the  right  whereby  thou  art  dis 
possessed  of  thy  inheritance?  Doth  wonder  why 
thy  olden  time  privileges  are  so  abridged?  Then 
look  on  the  evil  wrought,  and  by  thee  alone.  Not- 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.       63 

withstanding  all  this,  the  penalty  cannot  be  es 
caped,  for  thy  habitation  shall  henceforth  be  in  a 
cleft  of  the  rock,  thy  noisome  progeny  the  lawful 
prey  to  those  who  may  so  choose  to  take  advantage 
of  thy  misfortunes  and  give  heed  to  my  decree. 

"Should  the  crime  appear  of  lesser  magnitude 
than  the  penalty,  remember  it  is  a  fate  that  sooner 
or  later  overtakes  all  evil  doers,  for  as  much  as  thou 
couldst  not  be  content  with  the  powers  I  did  confer 
upon  thee,  but  needs  seek  enlarged  ones.  But  I 
have  said  enough.  Away,  then,  I  would  no  more  of 
ye,  and  turn  not  back  thinking  to  re-enter  the  gar 
den's  sacred  precincts,  for  a  flaming  sword  have  I 
set  at  the  gate ;  and  now  to  sum  all  up,  know  thou 
this —  'That  Paradise  lost  can  never  be  regained.'  " 

'Twas  thus  they  parted,  the  unhappy  conspira 
tors  going  out  from  the  celestial  garden,  where  so 
many  joyous  hours  have  been  spent,  their  eyes  first 
opened  to  the  delights  of  a  paradise  nevermore,  as 
the  Master  had  said,  "to  be  regained." 

They  are  now  to  seek  new  homes;  some  remote 
clime  maybe  to  witness  their  advent,  meanwhile, 
their  journeyings  beset  by  all  manner  of  dangers ; 
their  lives  harassed  beyond  measure.  Surely  when 
contrasting  their  present  miserable  condition  with 
the  past  happy  lot  it  was  a  bitter  exchange. 

Their  only  recourse  now  lies  in  adapting  them 
selves  to  their  present  surroundings,  thus  in  some 
slight  degree  seeking  to  alleviate  the  sting  of  re 
morse  which  so  settles  down  .upon  them  as  to  make 
life  almost  a  burden. 

But  how  fares  the  Serpent?  Doth  he  journey 
alongside  the  friends  so  deeply  wronged?  Nay! 
on  the  contrary,  disposed  to  heed  the  Master's  man- 


64      THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

date,  he  crawls  away  to  some  mountain  fastnesses 
where,  free  to  exercise  his  wicked  wiles  unmolested, 
he  forgets  in  some  measure  his  once  while  lofty 
station,  thus  submitting  to  his  fate  without  repin 
ing  and  scarcely  wishing  it  otherwise. 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.   65 


CHAPTER  XII. 

THE   BEASTS    TAKE    THEIR   DEPARTURE. 

'TWAS  but  a  day  after  the  expulsion  from  Para 
dise  that  the  great  gates  were  thrown  open  and 
the  animal  kingdom  came  forth,  some  following  in 
the  wake  of  their  strongly  attached  friends,  whose 
dominion,  as  we  have  seen,  was  forever  to  hold 
sway,  others  gathering  in  distinct  groups,  as  in 
clination  prompted  or  mutual  interest  seemed  to 
dictate.  Thus  journeying  to  distant  lands,  even 
to  the  more  remote  portions  of  the  globe,  for  the 
Master's  curse  was  not  to  man  alone,  but  to  all  liv 
ing  creatures. 

The  struggles  of  this  unhappy  pair  now  begin. 
The  very  existence  of  these  poor,  forlorn — nearly 
helpless — beings  depending  largely  on  their  un 
aided  efforts,  for  they  are  compelled  to  go 
out  into  the  wilderness  single  handed,  en 
tirely  destitute  of  resources  save  those  fur 
nished  by  Nature;  hence,  it  is  safe  to  say  that 
naught  but  barren  and  frequently  sterile  fields 
are  encountered.  Desert  plains  loom  up  on 
every  hand,  while  thorns  and  brambles,  as  foretold, 
obstruct  their  onward  way.  And  what  a  transfor 
mation  !  Paradise,  where  peace,  happiness  and 
contentment  reigned  supreme;  all  these  given  place 
to  an  untrodden  wilderness ;  ceaseless  exertion  al- 


66      THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

lied  to  unwearied  toil  barely  sufficing  to  obtain  the 
commonest  necessaries  of  life,  and  yet  the  princi 
pal  cause  for  unhappiness  hinges  on  the  fact  that 
such  a  needless  sacrifice  was  made  for  such  poor  and 
unsatisfactory  results,  and  all  accruing  from  the 
senseless  act  of  defying  the  Master's  proclamation : 
"Of  this  tree  ye  must  not  eat."  An  apple  in  ex 
change  for  the  felicities  of  Paradise  ! 

"Alas !"  moaneth  the  man,  the  while  heaping  re 
proaches  on  the  head  of  the  woman:  "Had  I  not 
hearkened  to  thee  all  would  now  be  well." 

"In  that  thou  speaketh  the  truth.  Yet  had  I 
not  hearkened  to  the  ill-advised  sayings  of  our 
lately  attached  friend,  the  Serpent,  all  would  now 
be  well.  But  what  hath  become  of  his  lordship? 
Methinks  in  this  the  hour  of  adversity  it  ill  becom- 
eth  him  to  desert  those  he  has  so  foully  wronged?" 

"  'Tis  but  the  way  of  the  world,  Orimentides, 
as  thou  wilt  soon  enough  learn,  for  it  is  said,  you 
know,  'That  friends  are  only  such  in  times  of  one's 
prosperit}r/  "  replies  the  man. 

Notwithstanding  these  ill-natured,  though  com 
mon  enough  carpings,  peace  is  ere  long  restored, 
the  twain  continuing  their  journeyings  for  the 
space  of  many  moons,  until  finally  they  chance  on 
a  region  in  every  way  adapted  to  prolonged  habi 
tation,  so  they  at  once  proceed  to  locate,  first  erect 
ing  a  suitable  dwelling  in  the  form  of  a  log  cabin, 
/of  course,  of  crude  construction  and  limited  in 
size,  yet,  it  is  believed,  fully  adequate  for  all  needed 
Requirements. 

A  twelvemonth  elapses,  affairs  the  while  progress 
ing  fairly  well,  when  the  castaways  are  called  upon 
to  give  welcome  to  an  addition  to  their  little  family. 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.       67 

The  mother's  heart  rejoicing  over  a  new-born  son, 
hence  overjoyed,  as  she  naturally  would  be,  is  over 
heard  in  soliloquy: 

"Let  winter's  cold  paralyze,  summer's  heat 
wither,  thorns  obstruct,  brambles  choke,  dangers 
appal !  What  need  I  care  for  them,  for  I've  more 
than  earth?  Heaven  hath  opened  wide  its  portals, 
sending  forth  a  soul  fresh  from  the  Master's  hand 
my  lonely  pathway  to  cheer;  a  being  on  whom  to 
place  my  affection,  thereby  fulfilling  the  Master's 
prediction:  'In  love  of  offspring  slialt  thou  find 
compensation  and  be  comforted.' '' 

And  yet  another  and  no  less  comforting  thought 
comes  to  the  mother's  relief  from  the  fact  that 
with  stout  heart,  steady  hand  and  unwearied  effort 
they  are  enabled  to  look  upon  a  wondrous  transfor 
mation  in  that  the  "Wilderness  blossoms  as  the 
rose,"  also  the  promise  fulfilled:  "Seed  time  and 
harvest  fail  not." 

Garments  of  the  fig  leaf  are  no  longer  in  demand, 
the  genial  warmth  of  a  lost  Paradise  giving  place 
to  a  temperature  wherein  ice,  snow,  hail  and  win 
ter's  chilling  blasts  are  prime  requisites,  and,  while 
the  woman  has  hardly  been  enabled  to  clothe  her 
self  in  garb  "not  one  whit  inferior"  to  the  Ser 
pent's  promised  raiment,  the  wild  beasts,  whose  dis 
mal  howls  are  heard  the  long  night  through  awak 
ening  the  echoes,  as  roaming  in  tangled  wood  and 
desert  wild,  are  brought  into  requisition,  their  soft, 
furry  skins  fashioned  into  garments,  uncouth, 
maybe,  yet  none  the  less  serviceable,  and  well 
adapted  to  their  needs. 

Fruits  of  the  pomegranite,  nectarine,  plum, 
peach,  and  even  the  perverse  apple,  flourish,  yet 


68       THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

only  by  unceasing  toil,  unsurpassed  skill  and 
thoughtful  care,  while  the  more  common  grains — 
oats,  barley,  etc.,  spring  up  and  grow  apace,  until 
reaching  maturity,  but  only  by  the  most  wearisome 
labor,  for,  unskilled  as  he  is,  the  faithful  husband 
man  witnesses  tares  choking,  thorns  and  brambles 
lending  aid,  looking  to  his  discomfiture,  the  ut 
most  and  untiring  energy  scarcely  sufficing  to  clear 
the  way,  wherefore,  one  may  be  led  to  the  conclu 
sion,  that,  whereas,  the  Master  never  fails  in  ful 
fillment  of  His  promises,  so  does  He  not  in  His  de 
crees.  Moreover,  it  almost  seems  that  he  on  whom 
the  Serpent's  mantle  fell,  i.e.,  Satan — had  taken 
hold  of  affairs,  for  do  his  best,  the  hard-earned  fruit 
of  the  husbandman's  labors  frequently  comes  to 
naught.  Heaven's  artillery,  echoing  and  vibrating, 
thunders  forth  in  warning.  Lightnings  flame,  set 
ting  the  firmament  all  aglow.  All  these  miseries, 
disturbing  the  babe  in  its  cradle,  contribute  to  their 
dismay,  for  in  the  one  the  Master's  angered  voice 
is  discerned,  the  other  His  fiery  breath,  hence,  the 
conviction  is  indulged  that  His  wrath  is  not  one 
whit  abated. 

Thus  pass  days,  weeks,  months  and  years.  Mean 
while  the  condition  of  the  new-world  colonists  im 
proving,  experience  having  been  a  wise,  though 
stern,  teacher,  so  that  now  they  are  in  fair  way  of 
all  their  immediate  wants  being  supplied. 

The  first-born  child,  having  passed  through  the 
ills  common  to  childhood,  approaches  manhood,  yet 
is  hardly  such  an  one  as  the  mother's  heart  craves, 
for  as  he  grows  in  growth,  so  does  he  in  wickedness ; 
in  temperament,  obstinate,  disposition  perverse,  in 
character  willful,  treacherous  and  of  cruel  instincts. 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.       69 

The  disheartened  mother  grieves  over  these  un 
natural  traits,  trusting,  however,  at  no  distant  day 
she  may  become  parent  of  one  whose  nature,  more 
in  accord  with  her  own,  may  in  some  measure  re 
deem  that  of  the  first  born  from  traits  so  repug 
nant  to  her  kindly  disposition  and  generous  ways. 

Thus  trusting,  hoping  and  withal,  believing,  her 
cherished  desire  is  at  last  gratified,  the  measure 
of  her  joy  filled  to  overflowing,  for  she  presses  to 
her  maternal  bosom  one  whose  soft  blue  eyes  reflect 
back  to  her  own  a  light  of  no  less  excellent  char 
acter. 

This  boy  also  thrives,  growing  apace,  at  length 
reaches  manhood,  displaying,  however,  attributes  of 
a  far  higher  order,  for  in  lieu  of  cruelty,  his  heart 
overflows  with  affection.  Manly  instincts  and  gen 
erous  emotions  characterizing  his  every  action 
therein  evidencing  to  the  tender-hearted  mother,  so, 
at  least,  she  believes,  the  primeval  curse,  so  long 
clinging  to  their  footsteps,  is  about  to  be  removed. 
False  belief,  false  delusion !  The  fond  mother  has 
evidently  forgotten.  The  curse,  as  originally  pro 
mulgated,  is  forever  to  remain  a  heritage  to  all  who 
come  after. 

And  now  the  boys,  having  grown  to  the  stature 
of  manhood,  the  family  circle  having  been  added  to 
from  time  to  time,  it  is  deemed  advisable  that  other 
homes  be  sought. 

The  two  young  men,  confronted  with  the  propo 
sition,  are  inclined  to  demur,  but  on  the  father's 
statement  that  his  limited  income  will  no  longer 
warrant  the  support  of  so  large  a  family,  the  boys 
finally  concur,  agreeing  to  look  out  for  themselves 
in  the  future,  whereupon  arrangements  made,  the 


70       THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

sons  each  receive  their  due  share  of  the  estate.  Soon 
after  taking  their  departure,  they  journey — as  once 
upon  a  time  did  their  parents — to  a  far-away  coun 
try,  a  goodly  number  of  moons  consumed  in  the 
undertaking. 

Arriving  at  a  region,  in  every  \vay  pleasing,  a 
cabin  is  erected,  a  large  tract  of  land  surveyed  suit 
able  for  both  grazing  and  cultivation,  in  this  case 
of  equal  importance. 

In  the  father's  distribution  of  his  substance,  he 
bestows  on  his  sons  flocks  of  sheep,  herds  of  goats 
and  cattle,  altogether  a  handsome  outfit,  proving 
later  a  source  of  large  revenue. 

Household  affairs  adjusted  and  all  things  placed 
in  proper  order  for  settled  habitation,  that  there 
be  no  conflicting  interests,  an  equitable  division  of 
labor  is  agreed  upon,  whereby  the  elder  becomes  a 
tiller  of  the  soil,  while  the  younger  brother  chooses 
for  occupation  the  care  of  the  flocks  and  herds. 

As  time  passes  along,  both  in  fair  way  of  realiz 
ing  their  anticipations,  it  is  deemed  a  matter  for 
congratulation  and  equally  so  of  right  that  just 
recompense  be  shown  for  benefits  received,  so  it  is 
mutually  agreed  that  offerings  be  brought  to  the 
Master.  The  tiller  of  the  soil  of  the  first  fruits 
of  his  labor ;  the  shepherd,  the  finest  of  his  flocks ; 
neither  for  a  moment  suspecting  that  the  gifts 
would  not  be  equally  well  received. 

Such,  however,  was  not  the  case.  Indeed,  the 
brothers  were  doomed  to  miserable  disappointment, 
for  while  the  offering  of  the  one  was  gratefully  ac 
cepted,  the  other  was  spurned  with  contempt — 
but  on  what  grounds  has  never  been  satisfactorily 
explained — unless  the  underlying  intention  was  at 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.       71 

fault;  that  is  to  say,  the  elder  brother's  gift  of  a 
selfish  nature,  while  that  of  the  younger  was  an 
honest  expression  of  gratitude  for  benefits  received. 
Be  this  as  it  may,  the  stern  fact  cannot  be  contro 
verted  that  there  was  a  large  amount  of  hatred 
generated,  ungovernable  rage  the  outcome,  there 
fore,  the  one  begins  to  upbraid  the  other  in  terms 
more  vigorous  than  polite,  heaping  reproaches  on 
his  head  in  the  words,  "Why  doth  the  Master  ac 
cept  thy  gifts  with  thanks,  while  mine  are  contemp 
tuously  spurned?  Tell  me  that,  if  thou  canst?" 

"Dost  not  perceive,  or  art  thou  blinded  to  the 
fact,  that  the  Master  regardeth  me  with  more  fa 
vor  than  thou?  Why,  I  am  positive,  one  need  not 
look  far  in  discernment  of  the  reason  why  the  Mas 
ter  prefers  my  offering  to  thine,  especially,  when  I 
am  the  universally  acknowledged  favorite/'  an 
swers  the  younger  brother. 

"Possibly  thou  speakest  the  truth — fool  that  thou 
art !"  retorts  the  elder ;  then  in  condemnatory  tones, 
"In  that  last  sentence,  thou  hast  spoken  thy  death 
warrant."  Then  drawing  a  blunt  instrument  from 
tinder  his  husbandman's  frock,  lets  fly  a  terrible 
blow  at  his  brother's  head,  who  falls  stunned  and 
bleeding  at  his  slayer's  feet. 

Believing  the  hapless  victim  merely  stunned,  he 
lifts  the  murderous  weapon  for  the  purpose  of  de 
livering  a  second  blow,  when  on  the  instant,  remorse 
seizes  him,  his  slumbering  conscience  awakens,  he 
breaks  forth  in  agony  of  soul,  "Alas,  alas !  I  have 
slain  my  only  companion,  my  dearly  beloved 
brother !  Oh,  what  shall  I  do  ?" 

Thus  he  remains,  gazing  on  the  lifeless  remains 
of  the  victim  of  his  evil  passions,  his  soul  tortured 


72      THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

with  a  remorse  that  will  not  down,  until  at  length 
bethinking  himself  as  to  the  immediate  conse 
quences  of  his  rash  act  and  the  disclosure  sure  to 
follow,  he  hastens  to  remove  the  body,  concealing 
it  in  the  midst  of  a  dense  wood,  thinking  thereby, 
to  evade  the  penalty  of  his  rashness,  meanwhile, 
indulging  the  uncomfortable  reflection,  "While  my 
brother's  dead  body  remains  hidden,  what  have  I 
to  fear,  for  surely,  no  one  will  be  the  wiser,  be 
cause  so  thoroughly  concealed;  who  can  find  it? 
Truly  a  happy  thought !  Nevertheless,  what  am  I 
to  do?  Terrible,  it  is,  to  be  thus  bereft  of  friend 
and  companion — and  he,  my  only,  dearly  beloved 
brother.  Slain — yet,  'tis  I  who  have  done  the  deed 
— and  now,  alone,  oh,  that  with  a  word,  I  could 
bring  him  back  to  life.  If  only  to  ask  forgiveness. 
But,  alas  !  'tis  now  too  late.  The  deed  done,  the  die 
cast,  I,  alone,  must  abide  the  consequences." 

Thus  meditating,  his  mind  fearfully  harassed 
in  view  of  the  retribution  sure  to  follow.  His 
heart  in  contemplation  of  the  terrible  deed  mo 
mently  growing  cold,  he  is  quickly  recalled  to  full 
realization  of  the  enormity  of  the  crime  by  hearing 
the  voice  that  once  sent  a  thrill  of  horror,  piercing 
the  heart  of  the  first  created,  whose  eldest  son 
he  is,  now,  as  then,  questioning  in  tones  of  author 
ity,  "Jubal,  where  is  thy  brother?" 

"Why,  Master,"  in  trembling  accents  the  mur 
derer  replies,  "verily,  I've  not  seen  my  brother,  lo, 
these  many  days,  nor  do  I  know  what  has  become 
of  him.  In  very  truth,  Master,  I  do  not." 

"Know  not  ?  Indeed,  truly  a  wondrous  circum 
stance,  when  you  were  such  good  friends  as  to  dwell 
together,  never  known  to  be  separated  only  at  such 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.       73 

times  as  he  was  employed  in  tending  the  herds  and 
flocks  and  you  tilling  the  ground;  a  most  singular 
state  of  affairs,  surely — jet,  once  and  again  I  ask — 
What  has  become  of  thy  brother?" 

"Why,  Master,  art  thou  desirous  of  so  terrify 
ing  your  poor  servant ;  surely  the  vehemence  of  your 
manner  is  quite  enough  to  set  any  one  crazy  ac 
companied  by  this  useless  questioning."  The  guilty 
wretch,  still  persisting  in  avowals  of  innocence,  by 
repeating,  "I  know  not  where  he  hath  gone ;  maybe, 
some  wild  beast  hath  overtaken  and  slain  him.  I've 
positively  not  set  eyes  on  him,  nor  even  heark 
ened  to  his  voice  when  calling  his  flocks  and  herds 
for  the  space  of  the  past  three  days,  and  this,  Mas 
ter,  is  the  truth,"  all  this  spoken  with  the  boldest 
effrontery. 

"Wicked,  lying,  treacherous  impostor  I"  exclaims 
the  indignant  Master.  "Only  too  well  thou  knowest 
what  has  become  of  thy  brother;  you  know  too 
whither  he  hath  gone,  and  that  not  of  his  own  free 
will;  on  the  contrary,  he  was  by  thine  own  hand 
dragged  thither,  where  thou  concealedst  his  lifeless 
body,  after  having  stricken  him  down  with  a  blow 
from  a  concealed  weapon.  Hence,  I  say,  thou,  and 
thou  alone,  art  his  murderer,  and  for  this  wicked, 
unjustifiable  act,  I  am  constrained  to  brand  thee 
as  such,  and  lest  some  person  more  evil  than  thou — 
if  such  were  possible — seek  to  take  thy  miserable 
life  in  expiation  of  thy  brother's  blood  that  crieth 
out  from  the  ground  whereon  it  was  shed,  I  hereby 
set  a  seal  on  thy  brow,  thus  betokening  the  mur 
derer,  that  those  you  chance  to  meet,  will  flee  thy 
foul  presence,  passing  thee  by  unharmed,  unheeded ; 
even  the  beasts  of  the  field,  taking  cognizance  of 


74      THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

thy  evil  ways — evidenced  by  the  mark — while  show 
ing  their  teeth,  will,  doubtless,  turn  tail,  leave  thee 
in  undisputed  possession.  Moreover,  I  would  have 
thee  to  know,  that  it  is  my  settled  purpose  to  cause 
thee  to  depart  from  the  land  which  hath  been  wit 
ness  to  thy  crime,  for  thy  presence  doth  cast  a 
stigma  on  its  fair  fame,  while  thy  foul  breath 
doth  contaminate  the  air  of  any  who  might  chance 
this  way,  or  inclined  to  choose  habitation  here 
about.  Go,  then,  I  say,  we  will  have  no  more  of 
thee." 

For  answer,  the  slayer  of  his  brother  cries,  "Alas, 
Master,  my  punishment  is  greater  than  I  can  bear." 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.       75 


CHAPTEE  XIII. 

LOOKING  FOR  A  NEW  HOME. 

EARLY  morning  of  the  third  day,  subsequent  to 
the  fatal  decree,  witnessed  the  leave  taking  of  the 
author  of  a  crime  unknown  at  that  early  stage  of 
the  world,  and  as  he  departed  from  a  land  where  so 
much  labor  had  been  performed,  such  a  multitude 
of  privations  endured,  in  effort  to  establish  a  home, 
where  happiness  had  seemed  as  nearly  perfect  as 
earth's  mortals  have  a  right  to  expect,  the  poor  out 
cast  was  nearly  broken-hearted;  nevertheless,  from 
being  so  suddenly  and  unexpectedly  overtaken  and 
almost  overwhelmed  by  a  calamity  which  might 
end  in  his  complete  downfall,  he  must  from  the 
very  necessity  of  the  case  seek  another,  but — where  ? 

Thus  pondering,  Jubal  musters  up  courage,  reso 
lutely  setting  about  repairing  his  damaged  fortunes, 
resolving  also  to  bury  in  oblivion  thoughts  of  the 
past,  trusting  to  the  future  to  banish  unavailing 
regrets,  meanwhile,  cherish  brighter  hopes,  all  of 
which,  he  thinks,  will  tend  to  a  better,  possibly, 
happier  life,  so  gathering  about  him  his  flocks  and 
herds,  heretofore  so  zealously  watched  over  and 
faithfully  cared  for  by  his  now  dead  brother,  he 
sets  out  on  prospectively  a  long  and  wearisome  jour- 


76       THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 


ney,  for  said  he,  "I  will  away  to  some  out-of-the 
way  country,  where  none  shall  suspect,  none  take 
knowledge  of  my  present  place  of  abode." 

Hereafter,  quoting  his  own  words,  Jubal  goes 
on  to  say,  "Thus  journeying,  I  pursue  my  lonely, 
tortuous  way,  encountering  clangers  and  hardships 
innumerable,  frequently  meeting  wild  beasts,  from 
whose  ravages  the  flocks  must  be  protected  ;  en 
countering  rocky  cliffs,  within  whose  darksome 
recesses  lurked  the  numerous  progeny  of  my  par 
ents'  relentless  enemy,  the  Serpent;  )Tet  coming 
out  of  all  unharmed,  for  the  seal  sot  on  my  brow 
was  a  mark  proclaiming  me  one  to  be  shunned 
rather  than  feared. 

"In  this  manner  were  my  travels  prolonged  — 
pressing  forward  by  day,  going  into  camp  at  night, 
the  herds  and  flocks  furnishing  means  of  subsis 
tence,  until,  at  near  the  close  of  the  one  hundred 
and  twentieth  day,  my  eyes  rest  on  a  scene  at  once 
inspiriting  and  wondrously  astounding,  for,  away 
in  the  distance,  rising  from  out  an  extended  plain, 
is  the  burnished  dome  of  a  tower,  reflecting  back 
the  sun's  declining  rays,  thus  betokening  man's  ex 
istence  and  human  habitation. 

"I  hesitate,  halt,  rub  my  eyes,  gaze  anew,  then 
exclaim  —  sheep  and  goats  my  auditors  —  Am  I 
awake,  or  am  I  dreaming?  Is  this  a  reality  or  some 
hallucination?  Nay,  this  cannot  be,  my  brain  is 
clear,  my  physical  condition  never  better,  yet,  again 
the  thought,  Do  I  really,  fairly  and  honestly  look 
upon  this  —  to  me  unaccountable  —  scene?  The 
question  answered  before  fairly  asked,  by  appear 
ance  of  another  tower,  in  height,  proportions  and 
general  appearance  even  exceeding  the  first. 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT.       77 

"Structures,  as  I  live !  Homes,  yes,  there  they 
be,  in  compact,  symmetrical  groups. 

"Doth  any  wonder  that  I  was  bewildered,  rather, 
that  I  was  not  bewitched  ?  for  how  was  I  to  know 
or  even  have  the  remote  conception  that  there  were 
human  beings  on  the  face  of  the  earth,  other  than 
my  father's  family? 

"Well,  understanding  that  hesitation  and  self- 
questioning  were  of  no  avail,  I  take  up  my  staff, 
call  around  me  my  flocks,  then  resume  my  journey. 

"Now  well  along  in  the  afternoon,  I  proceed  but 
slowly,  for  both  my  mute  companions  and  myself 
were  well-nigh  worn  out  from  long-continued  ex 
ertion;  however,  along  toward  sunset  we  come  to 
the  walls  of  a  town,  finding  the  gates  about  to  be 
closed,  the  usual  custom  on  approach  of  night,  as 
I  afterward  found. 

"Accosting  the  gate-keeper,  I  inquire  the  name 
of  the  town. 

"The  keeper  is  no  less  surprised  than  the  one  who 
makes  inquiry,  for  I  was  positive  he  had  never  be 
fore  looked  on  the  face  of  a  stranger,  neither  had 
I  beheld  a  town  or  any  face  save  those  of  my 
father's  family.  Therefore,  it  was  nothing  strange 
that  our  surprise  was  mutual.  However,  after  a 
few  moments'  hesitation,  he  answers  my  question 
in  the  words,  'Good  sir,  the  city  you  now  for  the 
first  look  upon,  is  called  "Heirut-et-Abal,"  signi 
fying  "an  unknown  people."  ' 

"Eyeing  me  with  evident  suspicion,  at  the  same 
time  manifesting  no  little  uneasiness,  for  how  could 
it  be  otherwise  when  confronted  by  one  who,  for 
aught  he  knew,  had,  unheralded,  dropped  from  the 
skies,  for  judging  from  my  strange  appearance,  he 


78       THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

might  easily  have  been  led  into  the  error  of  sup 
posing  me  an  inhabitant  of  another  world.  More 
over,  my  face,  from  long-continued  exposure,  was 
burned  and  tanned  to  the  consistence  of  sole- 
leather,  while  my  uncouth  garb  of  undressed  sheep 
skin  was  soiled  and  torn  and,  to  crown  all,  'that 
everlasting  scar.' 

"Making  my  wants  known,  the  worthy  keeper 
and  to  all  appearance  a  kind-hearted  man,  bade  me 
enter,  and  that  the  flocks  might  readily  pass 
through,  opened  wide  the  gates,  and  when  all  was 
done,  closed  and  securely  barred  them  for  the 
night.  Then  offering  me  an  arm,  escorted  me  to 
the  principal  hostlery  of  the  town,  introducing  me 
to  the  landlord,  when,  after  a  few  moments'  hesi 
tation  and  questioning  of  the  keeper,  I  took  oc 
casion  to  request  food  and  lodging  for  myself  and 
proper  care  for  my  weary  four-footed  friends. 

"As  one  would  naturally  suppose,  the  inn-keeper 
was,  if  anything,  more  surprised  than  had  been  the 
gate-keeper.  Yet,  there  was  one  thing  that  puzzled 
me  more  than  all  else,  and  that  was,  that  the  tongue 
spoken  by  this  people  was  so  like  my  own — a  pecu 
liarity,  or  as  one  might  say,  a  coincidence,  which 
was  afterward  accounted  for. 

"However,  I  was  soon  at  ease,  my  generous  host 
inviting  me  to  supper,  shortly  after  which,  weary 
and  worn,  I  retired  to  rest,  sleeping  soundly,  awak 
ing  only  at  call  to  breakfast, 

"Upon  entering  the  dining-room,  the  inn-keeper 
gave  me  kindly  greeting,  first  asking  as  to  my 
night's  rest,  then  helped  me  to  food. 

"This  inn-keeper,  in  whose  house  I  lodged,  and 
where  I  was  to  all  appearance  an  honored  guest, 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.       79 

had  two  daughters,  Zilla  and  Zarilla.     The  one 
aged  twenty-four,  the  other  twenty. 

"Now  be  it  known  that  I  had  never  in  my  whole 
life  looked  on  a  female  face  other  than  my  mother 
and  sisters,  therefore,  it  was  nothing  strange  should 
I  be  attracted,  bye  and  bye,  falling  in  love  with 
one  or  the  other  of  the  twain,  which  in  due  time 
proved  the  elder,  Zarilla." 


80       THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 


CHAPTER  XIV. 

THE  MARRIAGE. 

"!T  is  hazarding  little  when  making  the  asser 
tion,  that  before  the  bride-elect  would  consent  to 
the  marriage,  I  was  obliged  to  adopt  a  style  of 
raiment  better  suited  to  my  new  situation  in  life, 
so  it  came  about  that  I  discarded  untanned  sheep 
skin  for  spun  and  woven  garments. 

"It  is  hardly  necessary  to  affirm  that  this  decided 
change  of  apparel  gave  Zarilla  much  gratification, 
'for,'  said  the  amiable  girl,  'from  an  uncommonly 
fine  appearing  man,  thou  art  become  a  veritable 
god ;  and  why  not,'  she  continues,  'when  thy  stature 
exceeds  twelve  feet  ?'  r' 

The  noteworthy  ambition  of  Jubal  could  not  be 
said  to  suffer  diminution,  on  the  contrary,  it  seemed 
to  branch  out  in  a  diversity  of  directions,  among 
which  may  be  reckoned  household  affairs,  inasmuch 
as  it  was  a  common  saying  "That  as  the  limits  of 
the  town  were  extended,  so  did  his  family  increase 
in  numbers." 

"However,"  resumes  Jubal,  "my  interests,  both 
of  a  public  and  private  nature,  were  so  zealously 
guarded  and  faithfully  attended  to  that  my  pos 
sessions  waxed  greater  than  those  of  any  other. 
Not  only  this,  but  as  my  riches  increased,  so  did 
my  desire  for  more,  some  of  my  neighbors  and  fel- 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.       81 

low-townsmen  going  so  far  in  their  righteous  in 
dignation,  as  to  declare  I  not  only  wanted  to  ac 
cumulate  myself,  but  to  deprive  my  best  friends 
of  their  hard-earned  substance,  and  this  through 
deeds  of  violence  accompanied  by  bloodshed,  fre 
quently  death;  all  of  which  I  can  truthfully  af 
firm,  were  wholly  without  foundation. 

"Thus  it  will  be  readily  inferred  that  a  people 
holding  deeds  of  this  character  as  wholly  unworthy 
of  one  in  my  position  were  now  in  repentant 
mood  from  the  fact  that  in  years  gone  by  they  had 
permitted  an  unscrupulous  stranger  to  settle  in 
their  midst.  The  day  was  not  far  distant,  how 
ever,  when  present  repentance  would  be  swallowed 
up  in  joy  and  thanksgiving,  for,  aided  largely  by 
my  efforts  the  town  was  in  a  fair  way  of  becoming 
so  thrifty  and  populous  as  to  be  the  envy  of  all 
jealous  rivals,  were  there  any  to  be  jealous.  More 
over,  I  was  becoming  so  wealthy  that  I  conceived 
the  idea  of  founding  another,  so,  holding  converse 
with  my  wife,  Zarilla,  with  that  special  end  in 
view,  I  found  the  estimable  lady  so  well  versed  in 
such  matters,  coupled  with  a  love  of  gain  if  any 
thing  eclipsing  my  own,  that  'twas  an  easy  matter 
to  bring  her  round  to  my  way  of  thinking,  that 
she  readily  consented  to  follow  whithersoever  our 
mutual  preferences  might  chance  to  lead;  where 
upon  I  commenced  at  once  settling  up  affairs,  to 
which  end  I  disposed  of  my  landed  estates  to  the 
best  advantage  preparatory  to  gathering  together 
my  numerous  progeny,  selecting  the  choicest  of  my 
flocks  and  herds,  and  after  all  was  done  I  was  to 
journey  to  a  land — as  I  trusted — never  before  trod 
by  human  foot,  for  I  was  determined  in  this,  my 


82       THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

last  supreme  effort,  to  outdo  anything  heretofore  at 
tempted,  promising  myself  the  building  of  a  city 
that  would  eclipse  whatsoever  might  be  attempted 
in  the  future,  as  I  was  positive  it  would  any  in 
the  past.  And  now,  before  setting  out  for  the  long 
journey,  I  took  occasion  to  call  on  my  old  friend 
and  father-in-law,  the  inn-keeper,  for  the  special 
purpose  of  asking  him  a  simple  question,  yet  one 
that  mi^ht  have  a  bearing  on  my  whole  future,  to 
wit: 

"  'Good  father  Ahiel,  the  question  I  would  ask  is 
this,  How  comes  it  that  I,  not  only  of  the  first 
generation,  but  also  "the  First  Born,"  didst  find 
here  a  people  whose  ancestry  must  antedate  my  own 
birth?  Surely,  good  father,  'tis  passing  strange, 
and  I  cannot  in  any  manner  comprehend  its  mean 
ing?' 

"For  answer  the  inn-keeper  returns:  'Know  ye 
not,  my  son,  Jubal,  that  thou  and  they  of  thine 
own  kin  who  have  come  after  thee  have,  lo,  these 
many  generations  labored  under  grievous  mistake 
in  this,  that,  while  thou  doth  consider  thyself  the 
first  born,  thou  art  not,  because,  long  before  thine 
eyes  were  opened  to  the  light,  thy  father  was  the 
sire  of  two  children — a  son  and  a  daughter — who, 
for  some  cause  or  other,  took  their  departure  from 
the  primeval  garden,  journeying  for  the  space  of 
many  moons ;  finally  seeking  an  abiding  place  so 
far  distant  from  the  old  home  as  to  render  it  a 
matter  of  doubt  if  their  retreat  was  ever  discov 
ered  ;  so  you  see.  Jubal,  I,  instead  of  thou,  am  of 
the  first  generation,  as  my  grandfather,  were  he 
in  the  flesh,  could  testify ;  nor  could  he  be  far  from 
the  prime  of  life,  that  is  to  say,  in  his  six  hundred 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.       83 

and  fifty-seventh  year.  My  mother,  however,  is 
still  in  the  flesh,  as  thou  hast  frequently  seen, 
thinking  her  an  elderly  maiden,  though  at  the  pres 
ent  time,  something  like  six  hundred  and  twenty- 
five  years  of  age. 

"  'Jubal,  thy  parents  still  live,  so  I  have  lately 
learned,  and  your  father,  Orimentes,  could,  were 
he  so  minded,  corroborate  the  story  I've  told  you. 

"  'I  am  well  pleased,  my  son,  that  thou  wert 
inspired  to  ask  these  questions  because  they  are  so 
intimately  connected  with  thy  ancestry,  and  may 
have  an  important  bearing  on  thy  posterity. 

"  'Doth  my  answer  satisfy  thee,  Jubal  ?' 

"  'Aye,  better  by  far  than  it  pleaseth  me,  for 
to  them  that  come  after  it  augureth  but  ill ;  never 
theless,  I  must  submit  to  a  decree,  while  not  of 
my  own  choosing,  is  no  doubt  just,  yet  hard  to 
bear,  as  you  must  admit.  'Tis  a  strange  tale,  in 
deed,  passing  strange,  yet  knowing  thee  to  be  a 
man  of  honor  and  integrity,  I  cannot  dispute  it/ 

"I  take  the  aged  patriarch's  hand  in  farewell, 
then  haste  to  my  waiting  family,  setting  out  on 
a  journey  that  consumed  no  less  than  ninety  and 
five  days'  continuous  travel,  meanwhile  subject  to 
hardships  innumerable,  incident  to  an  untrod, 
hitherto  unknown  wilderness,  harassed  by  attacks 
from  wild  beasts,  ever  and  anon  startled  by  angry 
hissings  of  the  ancient  enemy,  'the  Serpent/ 
whose  forked  tongue  was  none  the  less  in  readiness 
to  attack  friend  or  foe  than  when  beguiling  my 
father  and  mother  in  the  Garden  of  Eden.  Thus 
journeying,  we  at  length  reach  a  point  pleasing  to 
the  eye,  and  in  appearance  well  adapted  to  the 
object  sought,  viz.,  permanent  habitation,  there- 


84       THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

upon  settling  down  in  prelude  to  the  building  of 
the  contemplated  city,  which,  it  is  safe  to  say, 
when  completed  outranked  the  one  from  which  in 
the  long  ago  we  departed — a  city  whose  walls  tower 
high  above  all  surrounding  objects,  within  whose 
gates  were  structures  of  the  most  perfect  sym 
metry  and  utmost  solidity,  tapering  spires,  heaven 
ward  pointed,  proclaiming  'the  fact  of  many  gods' 
— for  I  believed  the  Master  only  one  of  the  many. 
This  city,  as  I  say,  was  named  after  my  eldest  son, 
accordingly  flourishing  uncommonly  well,  and  that 
stood  for  many  long  centuries,  a  monument  to  the 
eminent  builder,  Jubal.  As  some  were  wont  to 
affirm,  'A  monument  transcending  my  immoderate 
ambition  for  fame,  likewise  built  at  the  expense  of 
many  a  poor  toiler,  who  reaped  neither  fame  nor 
wealth.'  But  then  people  will  be  envious,  and 
who  shall  blame  them?  Xot  I." 

Saith  a  contemporary  of  Jubal :  "Many  and  oft 
were  the  strange  scenes  enacted  therein,  many  a 
cold-blooded  crime  committed,  for  this  was  an 
epoch  when  might  made  right,  and  when  strange 
gods  were  worshipped." 

Here,  too,  were  to  be  seen  gardens  in  mid-air, 
hanging  from  the  housetop  or  walls  erected  for  the 
special  purpose,  wherein  ilourished  all  manner  of 
plants  and  creeping  things,  even  the  hated  apple, 
along  with  flowering  plants  and  shrubs  of  every 
known  species,  while  fountains  from  which  flowed 
crystal  waters,  were  to  be  seen  in  all  directions. 

The  family  of  Jubal  also  flourished,  increasing 
in  numbers  so  rapidly  that  colonies  were  sent  forth 
for  the  purpose  of  settling  new  countries,  founding 
cities,  until  the  passage  of  time  saw  nearly  the 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT.       85 

entire  habitable  globe  thickly  peopled.  Yet  as 
the  population  of  the  different  countries  and  cities 
increased,  so  did  the  people  become  wicked,  until 
out  of  patience,  the  Master  repented  He  had  made 
man,  ultimately  coming  to  the  conclusion  'twere 
better  to  sweep  the  entire  race  off  the  face  of  the 
earth. 

At  the  time  my  brother  met  his  untimely  fate, 
my  father,  Orimentes,  was  two  hundred  and  thirty 
years  of  age,  living  thereafter  seven  hundred  years, 
and  during  this  somewhat  lengthy  period  of  exist 
ence  became  the  father  of  thirty-three  sons  and 
twenty-three  daughters. 

Now,  among  this  large  number  of  sons  was  one 
especially  noteworthy,  in  that  he  was  an  uncom 
monly  upright  man,  his  character  largely  resem 
bling  that  of  his  mother,  Orimentides,  while  the 
others  were  more  like  their  father. 

This  kindly  disposed  young  man,  like  many  an 
other,  took  unto  himself  a  wife,  and,  as  in  the  case 
of  his  father,  became  sire  to  a  numerous  progeny 
who  inherited  the  virtues  of  their  father,  yet  as 
time  passed  along,  each  succeeding  generation  be 
came  more  and  more  deeply  imbued  with  an  in 
satiable  desire  for  riches,  at  the  same  time  looking 
after  those  things  having  a  tendency  to  demoralize 
their  character. 

In  this  unsatisfactory  manner  passed  the  long 
period  of  two  thousand  years,  the  world  mean 
time  becoming  more  densely  populated  until  at 
length  there  came  on  the  stage  one  Aristides,  at 
the  time  of  which  we  speak  in  his  six  hundredth 
year.  It  was  also  about  this  period  of  the  world's 
history  the  Master  conceived  the  project  of  destroy- 


86       THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

ing  every  living  creature.  However,  not  wishing 
to  deal  unjustly  with  those  He  had  been  the  cause 
of  bringing  into  existence,  the  Master  cast  about, 
finally  coming  upon  Aristides,  who,  on  inquiry, 
was  found  closely  resembling  his  remote  ancestor 
in  those  attributes  most  essential  to  the  common 
walks  of  life,  viz.,  an  estimable  character,  virtuous 
inclination,  allied  with  integrity. 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.   87 


CHAPTER  XV. 

INTERVIEW  BETWEEN  THE  MASTER  AND  ARISTIDES. 

PLANS  decided  upon  and  all  arrangements  made 
looking  to  early  completion  of  the  work,  and  Aris- 
tides  was  summoned  for  consultation,  the  Master 
opening  the  interview  as  follows : 

"Aristides,  it  hath  become  my  settled  purpose  to 
adjudge  all  that  hath  life  to  destruction,  for  I 
will  not  henceforth  allow  root  nor  branch  to  cum 
ber  the  ground ;  not  only  this,  but  I  will  curse  the 
very  ground  on  which  they  walk.  Dost  ask  why? 
Because  my  laws  are  habitually  broken,  my  pre 
cepts  set  at  naught  and  nothing  I  can  say,  com 
mands,  entreaty  even,  are  not  needed,  for  which 
cause  wickedness  is  on  the  increase,  arts  and 
stratagems  are  concocted  whereby  the  innocent  are 
made  to  suffer  for  the  guilty,  and  as  I  can  see 
no  other  course  available,  no  punishment  of  lesser 
degree  adequate  to  the  emergency,  I  am  fully  de 
termined  to  carry  the  aforesaid  decree  into  effect. 

'''Discerning  in  thee  a  character  free  from  guile, 
thy  every  act  in  accordance  with  my  desires,  I 
hereby  make  thee  an  exception,  thou  and  thy  fam 
ily,  to  which  end  I  will  give  thee  all  necessary 
instructions  in  regard  to  certain  measures,  which 
if  adopted  and  carried  out,  will  redound  to  thy 
credit  and  largely  contribute  to  thy  safety. 


88       THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

"Now,  Aristides,  attend  closely  to  what  I  am 
about  to  say,  for  I  am  delegating  to  thee  an  un 
wonted  trust — a  trust,  as  I  may  say,  that  no  other 
human  being,  however  lofty  his  station,  or  of  how 
much  wealth,  can  in  any  wise  lay  claim,  or  if  so, 
would  receive  no  attention.  But  to  the  point :  Aris 
tides,  you  will  at  once  proceed  to  plan  for  a  vessel 
of  strength  adequate  to  the  sustainment  of  a  pres 
sure  of  the  elements,  which  I  will  allow  full  sway, 
also  of  sufficient  capacity  to  bear  'thyself,  thy  fam 
ily,  and  a  pair  each  of  beast,  bird  and  fowl,  to 
gether  with  subsistence  for  all,  as  it  has  become 
obligatory  on  me  to  bring  down  the  rains  from 
heaven  until  the  surface  of  the  earth  shall  be 
inundated  to  the  depth  of  fifteen  cubits,  the 
waters  to  begin  falling  on  the  seventh  month,  and 
the  twenty-seventh  day  thereof,  thus  without  ces 
sation  continuing  for  the  space  of  forty  days  there 
after." 

"Well,  but,  Master/'  expostulates  Aristides,  "how 
will  it  be  possible  to  do  this  thing  thou  dost  com 
mand,  for  I  can  in  no  wise  conceive  how  a  structure 
of  the  size  thou  doth  suggest  can  be  constructed." 

"All  things  are  possible  if  thou  dost  but  attend 
to  and  carry  out  my  instructions. 

"The  vessel  I  hereby  counsel  thee  to  build  must 
in  extreme  length  be  three  hundred  cubits,  in 
height  thirty  cubits,  fifty  in  breadth.  The  whole 
to  be  divided  into  four  stories. 

"See  to  it  thou  do  all  things  as  I  have  com 
manded,  so  that  at  the  supreme  moment  when 
the  earth  shall  be  swallowed  in  one  grand  abyss 
of  seething  waters  nothing  shall  be  found  want- 
ing." 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.       89 

In  the  year  two  thousand  and  four  was  set  the 
day  for  the  appearance  of  the  flood,  and  subsistence 
for  man  and  beast  is  received  daily  and  consigned 
to  the  hold  or  lower  deck.  About  this  time  Aris- 
tides  begins  to  be  considerably  worried,  fearing 
there  will  be  hardly  storage  room  for  so  large  a 
number  of  animals.  That  there  must  of  necessity 
be  more  or  less  overcrowding  is  a  foregone  conclu 
sion;  however,  bestirring  himself,  and  bearing  in 
mind  the  Master's  promise,  he  gives  no  further 
heed  to  the  matter,  simply  reaffirming  what  had 
at  one  time  been  said:  "The  Master  doeth  all 
things  well/' 

The  arrival  of  the  unique  cavalcade  is  now  daily 
looked  for,  and  the  morning  of  the  twenty-seventh, 
a  lookout  stationed  on  an  eminence  hard  by,  re 
ported  a  dense  cloud  of  dust  in  the  distance,  so, 
announcing  the  fact,  Aristides  appears  on  the 
scene,  notebook  in  hand,  and  it  was  not  long  be 
fore  the  head  of  the  column  emerged  from  out  the 
stifling  clouds  and  approached  at  slow  gait,  indica 
tive  of  being  nearly  worn  out  from  long-continued 
travel,  for  the  motley  troupe  had  been  on  the  road 
many  long,  wearisome  months. 

In  lead  of  the  multitudinous  array,  stretching 
away  to  the  rear  and  farther  than  the  eye  could 
reach,  was  to  be  seen  the  stately  mastodon  and 
mate,  a  pair  of  monstrous  elephants,  together  with 
representatives  of  the  entire  animal  world,  while 
a  lengthy  train  of  wheeled  vehicles,  wherein  were 
the  feathered  tribes,  among  which  were  the  great 
roc,  eagle,  ostrich,  and  a  host  of  lesser  degree, 
while  at  the  top  of  one  of  the  larger  carriages, 
basking  under  the  sun's  heated  rays,  eyes  glitter- 


90       THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

ing  in  their  intensity,  at  the  same  time  taking  in 
all  objects  worthy  of  note,  lay  outstretched  an 
enormous  serpent.  The  entire  cavalcade,  from 
their  listless  attitude,  evidencing  a  long-continued 
period  of  painful  travel. 

The  shades  of  night  draw  near.  The  wearied 
keepers  having  supplied  their  mute  guests  with 
all  things  needful  for  their  bodily  wants,  lie  down 
to  rest — mute  guests?  and  themselves  to  rest? 
Nay,  this  can  hardly  be  said  when  one  listens  to 
the  multitude  of  discordant  sounds,  among  which 
are  heard  the  fierce  cries  of  the  birds  of  prey,  roar 
of  lion,  bray  of  ass,  trumpeting  of  the  lordly  ele 
phant,  and  a  thousand  and  one  no  less  inhar 
monious  sounds,  to  say  nothing  of  the  great  ser 
pent's  hissing  plaint  consequent  on  bonds  no  more 
relished  than  would  be  the  captive  screaming  eagle, 
as  soaring  on  high,  he  looks  down  in  seeming  ridi 
cule  on  the  human  biped,  crawling  beneath. 

As  all  things  have  an  ending,  so  does  the  night, 
and  ere  the  weary  travelers  have  hardly  closed 
their  eyes  in  slumber,  the  trumpet's  shrill  blare 
calls  them  to  arise,  for  on  this  day  the  Ark's  living 
freight  must  be  on  board. 

Camp  aroused,  animals  fed,  breakfast  eaten. 
Thus,  all  things  in  readiness,  embarkation  begins, 
and  as  the  sun  reaches  the  meridian  the  work  is 
well  advanced,  continuing  without  cessation  forty 
and  eight  hours. 

And  now  a  strange  thing  happens,  for  while  em 
barkation  is  in  progress,  or  nearly  ended,  the  ten 
ant  of  the  only  remaining  vehicle  to  be  transferred 
on  board  ship — an  enormous  sea  serpent,  not 
known  as  such  at  the  time,  having  been  taken  a 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.       91 

long  way  inland — was  in  the  act  of  being  hoisted 
on  deck,  the  tackling  gave  way,  precipitating  ve 
hicle,  serpent  and  all  to  the  dock  below.  The  fero 
cious  beast,  as  was  but  natural,  attacked  the  one 
nearest,  which  proved  to  be  Aristides'  eldest  son, 
delivering  a  blow  fairly  on  the  young  man's  face. 
Whereupon,  by  some  occult  or  other  mysterious 
influence,  the  skin  was  changed  to  shiny  black; 
hair  became  of  the  texture  and  semblance  of  wool, 
the  usually  thin  lips  were  swelled  to  inordinate  pro 
portions  ;  yet  more  singular  than  all  else,  skin,  hair 
and  lips  of  his  posterity  have  so  remained  from 
that  to  this,  with  no  prospect  of  change. 

Embarkation  at  last  finished,  Aristides,  his  fam 
ily,  beasts  of  all  sorts  on  board,  in  addition  to  sub 
sistence,  thus  all  in  readiness  for  fulfillment  of  a 
decree  whereon  rests  a  world's  destiny:  The  usually 
calm  spirits  of  Aristides  have  risen  to  an  unwonted 
height;  not  that  he  would  offer  congratulations 
in  that  the  world  is  on  the  eve  of  destruction,  but 
because  the  welfare  of  those  he  holds  most  dear 
is  assured. 


92   THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 


CHAPTER  XVI. 

THE    DELUGE,    AS    TOLD    BY    THE    HISTRIOGRAPHER, 
JUBAL. 

THE  prophetical  night  passes,  its  darkening 
shades  disappear,  some  seeking  forgetfulness  in 
quiet  slumber ;  others,  disturbed  by  visions  of  coin 
ing  disaster,  look  on  the  prophecy  as  they  may, 
regard  Aristides'  saying  as  they  will,  forebodings 
of  evil  weigh  heavily  upon  them.  Meanwhile  the 
aged  patriarch,  in  all  the  serenity  of  conscious 
well  doing,  surrounded  by  his  anxious  family,  dis 
turbed  as  his  slumbers  undoubtedly  are,  preserves 
an  outwardly  calm  demeanor.  Yet  inwardly 
troubled,  for  he  alone  can  fully  appreciate  the 
perils  in  store,  for  friends,  neighbors  and  the  whole 
world  alike,  all  are  to  suffer  the  fulfillment  of  the 
prophecy  now  so  near  at  hand,  for  the  edict  pro 
mulgated  and  now  about  to  be  put  to  the  test  is, 
in  Aristides'  mind,  a  foregone  conclusion. 

The  day  breaks,  succeeded  by  the  beams  of  the 
rising  sun;  yet  to  the  most  careless  onlooker  pre 
sents  a  strange,  weird  aspect.  But  hark !  What 
means  this  tumultuous  uprising?  They  who  went 
to  their  beds  on  yesterday  night  in  full  assurance 
their  fears  were  without  foundation,  now  rise  in 
haste,  fright  urging  them  onward,  as  pale,  trem- 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.       93 

bling,  heavy  of  heart,  they  congregate,  each  alike 
contributing  to  the  other's  dismay. 

The  whole  world  is  in  like  mood,  and  ere  the 
dial  marks  the  hour  of  ten  the  sun  has  entirely 
disappeared;  not  a  shred  of  blue  above,  not  a  ray 
of  sunlight  beneath;  all  one  dark,  deepening  mass 
of  stony  gray,  while  over  and  above,  obscuring  all, 
rises  a  deep,  impenetrable  mist.  Friend  loseth 
sight  of  friend;  husband  of  wife;  servant  his  mas 
ter;  mother  of  her  child,  for  no  eye  can  penetrate 
the  ever-deepening  gloom. 

Suddenly  from  out  the  firmament,  crashing, 
thundering,  echoing  from  zone  to  zone,  comes  a 
deafening  roar,  preceded  by  flashing,  blinding 
flame,  altogether  suggestive  of  the  downfall  of  the 
race,  human  and  brute  alike,  for  in  all  their  un 
governable  rage  the  winds  arise,  and  as  they  gather, 
sweep  o'er  land  and  sea  in  one  long,  intermittent 
shriek  of  despair. 

Overturned  by  the  furious  blast,  the  lofty  palm, 
wide-spreading  oak  and  towering  cedar  fall  crash 
ing  to  the  earth. 

Ocean  beds  are  laid  bare,  rivers  run  dry,  seas 
become  mere  lakes,  lakes  pools,  the  loftiest  struc 
tures  are  torn  from  their  foundations,  their  former 
sites  swept  away  forever,  thus  becoming  a  thing 
of  the  past.  Yet  this  is  but  the  beginning,  the 
prelude  of  that  to  come  after,  for  soon  the  case 
ments  of  heaven  are  loosed;  they  fly  open,  the 
downpour  begins ;  the  parched  earth  eagerly  drinks 
in  the  flood.  Its  thirst  quenched,  the  whole  earth's 
surface  presents  one  unbroken  glare  of  water,  and 
now  the  floods  gather,  pools  fill,  the  most  insig 
nificant  streams  grow  and  increase  in  volume; 


94       THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

plains  and  low-lying  valleys  become  lakes,  they 
in  turn  enlarge  to  seas,  while  the  air  is  choked  in 
the  monotonous  roar  of  cataract  and  waterfall. 
The  lesser  hills  are  peopled  with  anxious,  excited 
groups,  others  haste  up  the  broken  declivities,  bear 
ing  in  their  hands  gold,  silver  and  other  precious 
metals;  broad  shoulders  groan  under  the  burden 
of  household  effects. 

Anon  the  waters  rise.  The  low-lying  hills  barely 
sufficing,  higher  elevations  are  sought,  these  in 
turn  engulfed,  the  cry  goes  up :  "To  the  moun 
tains  r 

And  now  raft-like  makeshifts  are  brought  into 
requisition  whereon  multitudes  seek  safety;  ves- 
•sels  originally  constructed  for  the  transportation 
of  wild  beasts  on  their  long  journeyings  to  the  Ark 
are  also  utilized,  their  occupants  thus  hoping  to 
avert  the  dread  calamity.  The  strongest  and  most 
thoroughly  constructed  strongholds  crumble,  there 
by  vast  multitudes  being  overthrown,  falling  from 
the  battlements  above  to  the  surging  waters  be 
neath.  Mountain  sides  are  climbed,  their  tops 
reached ;  then  up,  and  still  upward,  till  the  highest 
peaks  are  scaled.  Yet  of  what  avail?  For  it  is 
but  a  little  time  when  even  these  are  engulfed. 

Meanwhile  from  out  wood  and  jungle,  beasts  of 
whatsoever  species  or  degree  haste  to  the  moun 
tains.  The  tiger,  lion,  bear,  leopard,  these  the  most 
ferocious  of  all, — crouch  at  their  inveterate  foes' 
feet,  lick  the  hand  so  often  raised  to  strike  them 
down, — then  in  mute  appeal  gaze  in  the  eyes  of 
their  heretofore  bitter  foes,  urging  succor;  all 
enmities  on  their  part  forgotten,  thus  all  fear  of 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN"  HERMIT.       95 

human  face  and  form  giving  way  before  the  more 
imminent  one  of  impending  calamity. 

Now  seas  burst  their  bonds,  oceans  overflow  their 
bounds.  The  entire  face  of  the  earth  is  over 
whelmed  in  one  vast  bed  of  seething  waters.  Trees 
upturned,  freighted  with  human  woe,  as  borne 
along,  they  sway  back  and  forth.  They  even  jostle 
the  Ark's  towering  walls,  their  fear-stricken  lodgers, 
in  ear-piercing  accents  and  agonized  tones,  cry 
aloud  for  help.  The  once  despised  craft  has  in 
very  truth  become  an  ark  of  refuge. 

Wild  beasts,  too,  are  there.  Their  terrified 
howls,  and  fierce  cries,  mingling  with  those  of  their 
horrified  human  neighbors,  all  now  on  a  level,  death 
staring  each  alike  in  the  face — their  lifeless  bodies 
soon  to  roll  and  toss  on  the  bosom  of  the  "great 
deep"  only,  at  the  last  to  be  swallowed  up  in  the 
depths  of  the  remorseless  flood. 

Anon,  a  low,  indistinct,  monotonous  rumbling, 
increasing  in  intensity,  and  augmenting  in  volume 
until  the  very  heavens  are  choked  with  the  roar, 
breaks  on  the  ear.  Undermined  yon  mountain  has 
succumbed  to  the  fierce  onslaught,  disappearing  be 
neath  the  tumultuous  waters. 

Leagues  of  forest  stretching  away  in  the  far  dis 
tance  in  an  unbroken  wood,  fall  twisted  and  torn. 
Their  roots  like  unto  human  fingers  raise  them 
selves  on  high  in  mute  appeal  to  stay  the  oncoming 
flood. 


96       THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN"  HERMIT. 


CHAPTEE  XVII. 

THE    AUK'S    LIVING    FREIGHT. 

'TWAS  for  the  space  of  forty  days  and  forty 
nights  the  casements  of  heaven  remained  unclosed. 
Therefrom  proceeding  one  incessant,  unremittant 
downpour,  all  vestige  of  life,  save  the  Ark's  living 
freight  and  the  fishes  in  the  sea,  utterly,  irretriev 
ably  wiped  out  of  existence,  and  aside  from  these 
the  earth  was  as  at  the  beginning.  Still  the  flood 
continues,  yet  it  is  not  to  be  presumed  Aristicles 
and  his  family  remained  idle  spectators  of  these 
strange,  unwonted  scenes;  nay,  for  their  time  was 
fully  occupied  in  caring  for  and  supplying  the 
needs  of  the  immense  herd  of  beasts  entrusted  to 
their  charge,  for  in  the  safety  of  these  hinge  a 
world's  fate.  Whence,  'tis  safe  to  say,  that  no  simi 
lar  task  was  ever  before  delegated  to  mortal  man. 
As,  however,  the  responsibilities  were  of  uncommon 
magnitude,  so,  in  like  manner  were  the  resources 
unequalled,  and  so  long  as  the  Master  was  at  the 
fore,  so  long  would  his  energetic  Lieutenant  Aris- 
tides  harbor  no  fears  respecting  the  outcome.  But 
what  a  tremendous  undertaking !  This  providing 
food  for  the  vast  aggregation  of  beast,  bird,  and 
fowl,  some  subsisting  on  the  various  sorts  of  grain, 
hay  and  straw,  others,  fruits,  and  vegetables,  while 
the  wild  beasts  with  their  ravenous  nature  would  be 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT.      97 

satisfied  with  nothing  less  than  animal  flesh, — 
whether  of  human  or  brute,  it  mattered  little  which 
— and  when  one  stops  for  a  moment  to  consider  the 
difficulties  lying  in  the  way  it  is  certainly  a  matter 
of  wonder,  peradventure,  subject  for  speculation  as 
to  the  manner  wherewith  all  could  be  fed  with  the 
amount  and  kinds  of  food  as  indicated;  yet,  in  the 
absence  of  direct  proof  it  must  perforce  be  taken 
for  granted,  for  we  are  assured  that  all  came  forth 
from  the  Ark  in  good  condition,  and  at  the  stipu 
lated  time. 

On  the  evening  of  the  fortieth  day  the  windows 
of  heaven  are  closed.  The  rains  cease  falling.  The 
angry  clouds  disappear.  The  thunder  roll  is  heard 
no  more,  nor  does  the  lightning  flash  blind  the  eyes 
of  this  family  who  have  weathered  the  storms  pre 
vailing  for  the  past  forty  days,  and  now,  as  the  last 
vestige  of  the  storm  cloud  gives  way,  retiring  be 
fore  the  enlivening  beams  of  the  declining  sun, 
thus  disclosing  bright  skies  above,  below,  naught 
but  the  Ark's  staunch  walls,  the  brave  ship  riding 
safely  on  the  bosom  of  the  late  tumultuous  waters. 

The  once  despised  craft  has  borne  up  against  the 
raging  elements,  not  a  timber  shattered,  no  rib,  or 
plank  wanting,  for  notwithstanding  the  rough 
weather  encountered,  the  Ark  has  withstood  all, 
coming  out  of  the  fray  with  unbroken  harness,  un- 
conquered,  unstained  honor  even,  and  if  needs 
must,  ready  for  another  encounter. 

To  this,  however,  the  great  captain  takes  little 
heed;  for,  the  elemental  forces  conquered,  the 
storm  subdued,  the  rebellious  hosts  silenced, 
beaten,  fleeing  the  field,  utterly  routed,  no  root, 
nor  branch,  bearing  evidence  of  the  struggle,  no 


98       THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

one  indeed  left  to  tell  the  tale.  Therefore,  Aris- 
tides  has  good  reason  to  believe  the  Master's  wrath 
appeased  ;  meantime,  having  done  his  whole  duty,  he 
has  equally  good  reason  to  be  satisfied,  as  hath  the 
Master.  And  now  a  long  and  anxious  period  of 
suspense  accentuated  by  weary  waiting,  super 
venes. 

The  moon  waxeth  and  waneth.  The  great  eye 
of  day  looks  down  on  a  world  bereft  of  its  former 
wealth  and  grandeur;  where  once  was  splendor, 
glory  and  happiness,  now,  naught  but  silence,  and 
death.  And  yet  the  orb  of  day  moves  its  ap 
pointed  rounds.  The  sister  planets  illumine  with 
their  former  pristine  brilliancy,  for  there  are  no 
more  rains,  no  floods,  lightning  flame  nor  thunder 
boom,  no  storm,  nor  tempest,  on  the  contrary,  all 
is  serene.  The  Master's  wrath  not  only  abated  but 
entirely  quenched. 

Five  moons  now  elapse,  the  waters  gradually  sub 
siding,  when  upon  examination  the  ship  is  found 
fast  aground,  and  not  long  thereafter  land  appears. 
"But  where  ?" — a  thought  deeply  agitating  the  mind 
of  Aristides,  for  destitute  of  chart  or  compass  it 
is  impossible  to  determine  his  whereabouts,  hence 
there  was  evidently  but  one  course  applicable  to 
the  situation,  and  that  was  to  wait,  for  if  even  he 
were  in  possession  of  the  means  necessary  to  navi 
gate  it  would  be  sheer  nonsense  to  make  the  at 
tempt,  for  the  world's  seaports  were  as  "in  the 
beginning." 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.       99 


CHAPTER  XVIII. 

DISEMBARKING   FROM    THE   ARK. 

BIDIXG  his  time,  Aristides  waits  other  five  days, 
then  throws  the  window  open  and  makes  observa 
tion,  but  sees  nothing  but  a  little  strip  of  land 
as  before.  However,  as  yet  not  entirely  convinced, 
he  hits  on  the  novel  expedient  of  sending  a  raven 
in  quest,  but  'tis  not  long  when  the  bird  returns, 
having  found  no  place  whereon  to  rest  its  feet. 

Again  Aristides  waits  other  seven  days,  and  so 
thoroughly  convinced  is  he  that  the  waters  have 
abated  sufficient  to  effect  a  landing,  that  he  sends 
forth  a  dove.  Joy !  joy !  This  bird  also  returns, 
but  not  empty  handed,  for  it  holds  in  its  beak 
an  olive  branch.  Now  on  every  hand  may  be  seen 
dry  land,  yet,  in  order  there  be  no  mistake  he 
remains  yet  seven  days,  then  throws  wide  open 
the  gates,  whereupon  the  Ark  dwellers  draw  a  long 
pent-up  breath  of  relief,  the  foul  air  within  giving 
place  to  the  invigorating  atmosphere  from  with 
out. 

Disembarkment  is  at  once  begun  and  prosecuted 
with  so  much  vigor  that  soon  the  mighty  mastodon 
and  mate  come  forth,  followed  by  the  other  beasts 
according  to  degree.  Thus  the  long  array,  wherein 
are  comprised  beast,  bird  and  fowl,  file  out  along 
the  gangway  to  solid  ground,  until  the  great  ship 


100     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

is  cleared  of  all  save  "His  Majesty/'  in  all  the 
glittering  panoply  of  shining  skin,  hooded  crest 
and  danger  signal,  hissing  in  very  spite  that  he 
should  be  the  one  to  bring  up  the  rear,  rather  than 
as  guard  of  honor  in  the  van,  for  the  monster,  even 
at  this  late  day,  fails  not  in  remembrance  to 
whom  he  is  indebted  for  the  original  downfall,  nor 
does  he  intend  to  apologize  for  betraying  his  trust 
at  the  supreme  moment  when  a  world's  fate  hung 
in  the  balance,  and  now  deeming  himself  in  the 
line  of  ancient  ancestry,  hence  of  great  renown 
and  becoming  style,  he  comes,  the  notorious  enemy 
of  the  human  race,  notably  the  fairest  portion — 
"The  Serpent." 

Aristides,  the  noted  ship  builder  and  skilled 
navigator,  as  he  will  ever  be  known,  not  because 
of  original  discovery,  but  rather  that  he  has  re- 
peopled  a  "New  World,"  therefore  entitled  to 
honors  accordingly, — he,  too,  comes  forth  at  the 
head  of  his  estimable  family,  all  in  an  ecstacy  of 
delight  upon  once  more  breathing  the  fresh  air. 
Disembarkation  at  length  finished,  the  beasts  are 
secured,  temporary  quarters  allotted  on  ground  so 
lately  submerged,  the  wondrously  fashioned  Ark, 
wherein  they  have  been  so  long  held  prisoners, 
standing  for  all  time  as  a  monument,  not  to  Aris 
tides'  stupidity,  as  was  at  one  time  asserted,  but 
in  evidence  of  his  hearkening  to  and  obey  in  «•  the 
Master's  edict. 

True,  the  brown  earth  is  here,  but  utterly  bereft 
of  life.  Not  the  most  remote  sign  of  vegetation, 
no  lofty  palm,  no  high,  towering  cedar,  nor  wide- 
spreading  oak;  no  bush,  nor  shrub;  nor  is  there 
mountain  height  to  be  seen.  On  the  contrary, 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT.     101 

one  wide,  lonely,  monotonous,  dreary  blank,  and  to 
make  the  outlook  more  disheartening,  were  that 
possible,  the  ground  as  far  as  one  can  see  is  cum 
bered  with  lifeless  forms,  human  and  brute  side  by 
side,  else  commingled  in  indiscriminate  confusion ; 
bloated,  festering,  fast  decaying  under  the  sun's 
heated  rays;  nevertheless — from  some  unknown 
cause — no  stench  in  the  least  offensive  rises  there 
from.  But  there  is  much  to  be  done,  therefore 
annoyances  of  whatsoever  nature  or  source,  must 
be  made  as  light  of  as  circumstances  will  permit. 

Aristides  now  calls  the  family  together  in  coun 
cil,  looking  to  the  future,  and  as  a  first  step  toward 
resettling  the  world,  parcels  out  to  the  sons  the 
several  divisions  of  the  globe,  of  course  having  due 
regard  to  their  individual  tastes  as  to  their  occu 
pations.  So  to  one  he  gives  the  whole  of  Asia, 
to  another  Europe,  while  to  the  third,  and,  as  will 
be  remembered,  the  victim  of  the  Serpent's  wrath, 
whereby  his  skin  was  transformed  to  the  hue  of 
ebony,  he  presents  the  entire  region  of  Africa, 
within  the  boundaries  of  which  are  to  be  found  in 
countless  millions  his  descendants,  not  one  whit 
less  dark  than  their  illustrious  predecessor  and  re 
mote  ancestor. 

This  unique  family  is  about  to  engage  in  a  mar 
vellous  undertaking — the  re-conquering,  re-stock 
ing,  and  last,  but  not  least,  re-peopling  a  world  from 
whence  has  been  eliminated  all  that  once  was,  and 
while  wild  beasts  will  no  more  stand  in  the  way, 
no  hostile  foes  encountered,  Nature's  forces  must, 
from  the  very  nature  of  things,  be  subdued. 

Haste,  too,  must  be  made,  for  the  Ark's  capacious 
storehouse  is  rapidly  undergoing  depletion,  so,  cast- 


102     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

ing  about  in  order  that  steps  be  taken  to  meet  the 
emergency — for  as  things  now  stand  famine  is  im 
minent — Aristides  is  startled  beyond  measure,  for 
right  before  him  stands  a  strange  apparition  in  the 
person  of  an  aged  pilgrim  whose  stature  is  not 
less  than  eleven  feet,  hair  and  beard  of  snowy 
whiteness,  while  plainly  marked  on  his  brow  is  a 
"deep  red  scar." 

Lifting  up  his  voice  in  tones  savoring  of  anxiety, 
he  speaks:  "Friend  Aristides,  thy  mind  seems  at 
unrest  on  some  weighty  subject,  wherefore,  know 
thou  that  I  am  one  dispatched  by  the  Master  to 
inform  you  that  borrowing  trouble,  either  on  ac 
count  of  thy  family  or  future  prospects,  is  entirely 
useless,  for  in  the  matter  of  subsistence,  which  I 
plainly  discern  gives  thee  much  uneasiness,  indulge 
no  further  concern,  for  everything  thou  needest 
will  be  furnished  in  full  supply."  Saying  which, 
he  immediately  disappears. 

"Amazing  in  conception  and  marvellous  of  exe 
cution  are  the  Master's  works,"  piously  ejaculates 
Aristides,  then  casts  his  eyes  aloft  in  appeal  for 
the  higher  powers  to  solve  the  mystery. 

When  retiring  for  the  night  on  this,  the  close 
of  the  third  day  subsequent  to  disembarkation,  no 
change  of  scene,  as  connected  with  Nature's  doings, 
was  apparent.  The  same  dark  brown  earth;  no 
mountain  height,  no  hill  or  other  elevation  of 
whatsoever  nature  to  break  the  monotony  of  the 
landscape,  nor  was  there  the  most  insignificant 
sign  of  vegetation  to  relieve  apprehension  of  com 
ing  want ;  in  short,  all  was  one  dull,  sickening, 
unromantic  blank. 

But  what  a  startling  change  one  short  night  hath 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     103 

wrought !  and  who  can  in  the  least  imagine  the 
delight  consequent  on  the  early  morning's  dis 
closures?  For  in  lieu  of  a  dull,  gloomy  brown, 
the  earth  is  carpeted  with  a  mantle  of  brilliant 
green.  Instead  of  an  unbroken,  monotonous,  un 
relieved  plain,  the  eye  rests  on,  and  the  heart  is 
delighted  upon  witnessing,  these  splendid  tokens 
of  the  Master's  forethought,  for  spread  in  luxurious 
abundance  right  before  them  are  fields  of  corn 
waving  in  the  gentle  breeze  and  nearly  ready  for 
the  harvest,  while  each  bush,  tree  and  flower  is 
loaded  with  Nature's  choicest  productions.  Where 
upon  in  the  fullness  of  his  joy,  Aristides  breaks 
forth :  "In  no  wise  doth  the  Master's  promises  fail 
in  fulfillment." 

Thus  was  for  all  time  set  at  rest  the  question 
as  to  subsistence,  doubtings  heretofore  indulged 
giving  way  to  confidence  and  hope.  Thus  encour 
aged  the  future  colonists  immediately  set  to  work, 
putting  forth  every  energy  in  preparing  for  early 
departure,  the  morning  of  the  fifth  day  to  witness 
leave  taking,  so  at  the  appointed  hour  each  of  the 
settlers  is  to  be  seen  in  lead  of  a  column,  wherein 
are  the  separate  species  of  animals  indigenous  to 
the  clime  to  which  each  is  apportioned  while 
making  his  way  along  the  dusty  highway,  else 
riding  on  an  elephant  or  mastodon's  back  as  self- 
interest  may  dictate  or  convenience  warrant,  may 
be  seen  our  once  while  friend  and  coadjutor,  "The 
Serpent,"  Yet,  riding  or  crawling,  he  is  the  same 
enemy  to  human  kind  as  when  cast  out  from 
his  olden  time  high  estate,  companion  and  friend 
to  earth's  only  and  fairest  daughter,  he  essayed 
first  to  captivate,  then  dethrone  the  first  created 


10-i     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

of  all  human  beings,  in  both  of  which  the  venemous 
beast  was  eminently  successful.  But  now  every 
hand  is  raised  in  anger  against  him,  even  the  beast 
of  the  field  shunning  his  hateful  presence,  and 
why  not,  when  from  his  wicked  ways  he  has  be 
come  the  meanest  of  all  created  objects;  never 
theless,  be  this  as  it  may,  "His  Royal  Highness*' 
would  infinitely  prefer  as  a  habitation  some  out- 
of-the-way  mountain  fastness,  whereunto  the  rep 
tile's  notorious  ancestor  was,  by  fiat  of  the  Master, 
originally  banished. 

Thus,  in  three  parallel  columns  they  advance, 
halting  now  and  then  for  rest  and  refreshment, 
until  at  length,  after  many  days,  weeks  and  months 
of  wearisome  travel,  a  junction  is  formed  on  the 
plains  of  a  distant  part  of  the  land,  where  they 
dwell  for  a  lengthy  period  of  years,  sons  and  daugh 
ters  meantime  born  to  them,  who,  arriving  at  ma 
ture  age,  strike  out  for  themselves,  going  forth  to 
found  other  colonies,  settling  new  portions  of  the 
eminent  domain  originally  partitioned  off  to  them 
by  their  grandsire.  Aristides,  so  it  is  fair  to  pre 
sume  the  earth  will,  in  due  time,  be  again  peopled ; 
anyhow,  such  was  the  decision  of  the  eminent  his- 
toria  Jubal. 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     105 


CHAPTER  XIX. 

CONSULTATION    RELATIVE    TO    A    TOWER. 

THE  passage  of  years  brings  Aristides  both  sons 
and  daughters,  numbering  altogether  sixteen,  among 
whom  was  one  who  became  sire  of  a  most  remark 
able  character.  This  son,  commonly  esteemed  a 
bold,  and  in  many  ways,  bad  man,  was  possessed 
of  uncommon  strength,  many  of  his  friends  and 
ardent  admirers  going  so  far  in  their  avowals  of 
praise  as  to  bestow  on  him  the  compliment  of  a 
"veritable  giant,"  others  jealous  of  his  growing 
reputation  were  in  the  habit  of  stigmatizing  him 
as  "a  much  overrated  character,"  while  everybody 
was  willing  to  concede  to  him  all  that  he  himself 
claimed,  viz.,  "a  well-meaning  man."  Neverthe 
less,  in  order  to  maintain  his  constantly  augment 
ing  prestige,  he  was  quite  willing  to  ascribe  his 
more  notable  deeds  to  his  own  unaided  efforts, 
foresight,  and  above  all,  courage,  rather  than  to 
the  good  offices  of  the  gods,  maintaining  it  a  piece 
of  sheer  cowardice  to  lay  one's  good  fortune  at  the 
door  of  supernal  powers.  "Why,"  says  he,  "rather 
give  yourselves  credit  for  your  valiant  deeds,  and 
to  me,  praise,  as  their  author.  Furthermore,  ye 
well  know,  or  if  not,  ye  can  consult  the  records 
for  confirmation,  that  in  the  days  of  my  great- 
granclsire,  Aristides,  there  was  a  wondrous  flood, 


106     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

whereby  the  whole  world  was  inundated  and  every 
living  thing  swept  off  from  its  surface.  Moreover, 
through  wisdom  and  foresight  combined — forecast 
of  the  gods  many  averred,  though  Aristides  main 
tained  'twas  at  command  of  the  Master — a  craft 
of  enormous  size,  wondrously  constructed  and  of 
vast  capacity,  under  the  cognomen  of  'Ark/  was 
launched  and  provisioned  for  a  lengthy  cruise,  and 
within  this  selfsame  vessel  were  stowed  a  pair  each 
of  all  the  animal  kingdom,  besides  Aristides  and 
family,  all  of  whom  were  preserved,  and  of  whose 
descendants  you  and  I  are.  Now,  as  a  far-seeing 
man,  and  one  who  takes  nothing  on  trust,  I  put 
it  to  you,  at  the  same  time  I  am  willing  to  stake 
my  hard-earned  reputation  that  it  was  by  the  su 
perior  wisdom  of  my  illustrious  ancestor  that  meas 
ures  were  adopted  and  successfully  carried  out 
whereby  the  casualty  was  in  his  case  averted,  no 
matter  what  happened  to  others ;  moreover,  it  must 
be  conceded  that  whatsoever  has  at  one  time  oc 
curred,  may,  peradventure,  take  place  again, 
whence  I  am  minded  to  estimate  it  a  bounden  duty 
to  advise  a  similar  course  in  order  to  avert  other 
disasters  of  like  nature. 

"My  friends,"  he  continues,  "let  us  erect  a  struc 
ture  of  height  adequate  to  preclude  the  necessity 
of  that  floating  affair  denominated  'Ark,'  in  which 
event  we  will  be  enabled  to  rise  above  the  reach 
of  floods,  deluge  as  they  may ;  then  the  clouds  may 
well  stand  aghast  when  looking  on  a  column  over 
topping  even  their  dizzy  heights.  Again,  should 
fire  be  the  destroying  agent,  we  will  circumvent 
that  powerful  element,  for  we  will  build  of  stone, 
or  possibly  brick,  either  of  which  will  answer  our 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT,     lor 

purpose,  inasmuch  as  both  alike  are  impervious  to 
the  action  of  fire  and  water,  therefore,  seethe  as 
it  may  on  the  one  hand,  deluge  as  it  will  on  the 
other,  we  shall  be  out  of  reach  of  both. 

"What,  my  friends,  have  ye  to  offer  in  contradic 
tion  to  the  scheme?" 

"Why,"  says  one,  "'tis  so  affirmed  the  Master 
hath  set  a  bow  in  the  clouds  for  the  express  pur 
pose  of  preventing  further  floods  or  anything 
thereto  pertaining." 

"Bow  in  the  clouds,  indeed,"  quoth  Abiram. 
"What  do  ye  think  a  foolish  bow  or  any  other  sign 
can  do  to  prevent  the  rains  from  falling  when  so 
minded  ?  Xay,  nay,  friends,  be  not  deceived  by 
these  simple  tales,  for  I  do  assure  you  'twas  but 
a  ruse  to  relieve  the  mind  of  our  worthy  ancestor, 
Aristides,  who,  as  I've  been  told,  was  constantly 
tormented  by  the  thought  that  the  Master,  as  he 
denominated  his  one  god,  might  possibly  again  see 
fit  to  bring  a  similar  disaster  on  the  world. 

"The  deception  practiced  on  the  poor  man,  harm 
less,  no  doubt,  in  connection  with  the  delusion  that 
followed  him  to  his  grave,  had  the  desired  effect, 
for  his  mind  was  ever  after  set  at  rest,  but  methinks 
this  topic  has  little  enough  to  do  with  our  present 
affairs,  wherefore  I  again  ask,  What  think  ye  of 
the  scheme?" 

The  question  so  adroitly  put,  the  reasoning  so 
conclusive,  brought  the  entire  assemblage  to  terms, 
so,  with  a  single  exception,  all  responded:  "Aye, 
aye,  worthy  citizen  Abiram,  'tis  naught  but  the 
truth  thou  dost  speak." 

To  bind  the  people  still  firmer  to  the  compact 
Abiram  continues  thus :  "Ye  have  heard  them  well 


108     THE  OLD  MOUXTAIX  HERMIT. 

grounded  in  the  law  assert,  likewise  so  do  the 
ancient  records  testify,  'that  the  realms  of  Para 
dise  are  directly  above  the  firmament,  the  one 
the  floor  of  the  other.'  Xow,  do  ye,  my  friends, 
understand  the  gist  of  my  reasoning?  If  so,  then 
will  ye  also  understand  that  should  the  contem 
plated  structure  rise  to  the  desired  height,  what's 
to  hinder  one  from  stepping  from  the  highest  pin 
nacle  of  the  one  to  the  very  entrance  gates  of  the 
other?" 

At  the  close  of  Citizen  Abiram's  address  shouts 
of  approval  rose  from  all  sides,  the  cry  going  up, 
"Long  live  Citizen  Abiram !"  And  no  wonder, 
when  his  specious  arguments  having  carried  the 
clay,  all  opposition  was  at  once  swept  away,  thus 
at  the  outset  assuring  the  good  will  and  hearty  co 
operation  of  the  entire  community,  who  evidently 
foresaw  in  the  carrying  out  of  the  project  an  easy 
and  direct  way  of  reaching  Paradise.  Truly  a 
mighty  enterprise,  this  erecting  a  tower  computed 
to  extend  upward  until  heaven's  gates  were  reached, 
and  so  confident  was  Abiram  of  success  and  so 
full  of  enthusiasm  his  followers  and  prospective 
coadjutors,  that  few  misgivings  were  harbored  as 
to  the  result. 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     109 


CHAPTER  XX. 

COMMENCEMENT    OF    THE    TOWER. 

THE  populace  agreed,  and  all  things  in  readi 
ness,  operations  were  commenced  by  dispatching 
messengers  throughout  the  length  and  breadth  of 
the  land  for  the  purpose  of  summoning  architects 
of  well-known  ability,  also  skilled  artisans  in  their 
individual  lines  of  work,  the  one  to  prepare  plans 
and  models,  the  others  to  put  them  in  execution; 
while  the  everyday  laborers,  in  the  aggregate  many 
thousands,  to  be  employed,  it  being  declared  on  all 
sides  that  a  project  of  such  stupendous  magnitude 
had  never  before  entered  the  mind  of  man,  nor  was 
one  of  like  importance  ever  delegated  to  mortal, 
nor  was  one  likely  to  be  projected.  Therefore, 
the  earlier  the  task  was  entered  upon  the  better 
for  all  parties  concerned,  as,  said  one,  "the  popu 
lar  feeling  evidently  runs  in  the  direction  of  some 
overwhelming  convulsion  of  nature,"  but,  were  the 
truth  known,  this  was  of  secondary  importance  com 
pared  with  that  of  being  able  to  reach  Paradise  by 
an  easy  and  comfortable  route. 

Considerations  of  this  nature  being  uppermost 
in  the  minds  of  the  people,  it  was  an  easy  matter 
to  raise  funds,  so,  on  solicitation,  vast  sums  were 
subscribed  to  the  building  fund,  for  the  fame  of 
the  great  leader  was  of  such  wide  extent,  his 


110     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

capability  so  well  established,  that  no  one  hesitated 
to  comply  with  the  proposed  terms,  while  enthu si- 
asm  ran  so  high,  it  might  be  said,  unbounded,  that 
the  treasury  was  nigh  to  overflowing  with  gold, 
silver  and  letters  of  credit. 

Notwithstanding  the  alacrity  wherewith  response 
to  the  call  was  made,  more  or  less  delay  was  ex 
perienced  consequent  on  limited  means  of  transpor 
tation,  nevertheless,  a  considerable  number  of  archi 
tects,  artisans  and  laborers  appear  prepared  for 
operations,  whereupon  a  consultation  was  held, 
first,  to  determine  the  particular  style  of  archi 
tecture;  second,  material  best  adapted  to  the  work 
of  erecting  a  structure  wherein  solidity  was  ob 
viously  a  prime  requisite. 

A  considerable  amount  of  discussion  involved, 
arguments  pro  and  con  adduced,  and  it  was  at 
length  determined  to  employ  granite  for  the  sub 
structure,  while  for  the  tower  proper  unburned 
brick  was  to  be  employed,  the  whole  cemented  with 
bitumen. 

The  next  consideration  being  the  size  and  shape 
of  the  building.  After  further  discussion  it  was 
resolved  that  the  form  should  be  conical,  divided 
into  separate  stories,  according  to  the  height,  this 
latter  point  of  noteworthy  importance,  and  to  be 
determined  only  after  the  work  had  sufficiently 
progressed.  "For,"  said  Abiram,  "we  know  not 
how  far  heaven  be  above  us,  therefore  I  consider 
it  the  wiser  plan  to  leave  that  important  affair 
unsettled  for  the  present." 

Along  the  outer  walls  was  to  rise  a  winding  stair 
case  extending  from  base  to  summit,  a  certain  num 
ber  of  windows  to  each  story.  Thus,  the  scheme 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     Ill 

inaugurated,  is  pushed  with  the  utmost  vigor  com 
patible  with  the  excellence  of  the  work.  Huge 
blocks  of  granite  cut  from  the  mountain  side  and 
loaded  on  stout  carts  drawn  by  long  trains  of  bul 
locks  and  camels  were  hauled  to  the  site  selected, 
while  brick  by  the  thousand  are  turned  out  daily, 
and  thus  without  let  or  hindrance  the  work  goes 
bravely  on  until  the  structure  has  reached  to  the 
height  of  one  story  above  the  base. 

Thus,  without  cessation,  the  work  continues  un 
til  the  structure  has  reached  the  enormous  height 
of  two  hundred  and  seventy-five  feet,  the  lengthy 
period  of  forty  years  already  consumed,  but  never 
a  thought  of  relinquishing  or  for  a  moment  halting, 
inasmuch  as  the  battlements  of  heaven,  according 
to  the  general  estimate,  are  almost  in  sight. 

Who  shall  describe,  or  attempt  description  of  a 
structure  built  as  was  this,  of  solid  masonry,  its 
proportions  of  the  utmost  symmetry,  in  height 
nearly  reaching  the  skies,  a  broad  and  easy  stair 
way  circling  the  outer  walls  from  base  to  sum 
mit,  windows  from  all  sides  affording  an  unbroken 
outlook,  gaze  from  which  ever  direction  one  may; 
in  short,  a  monument  witnessing  to  the  skill  of 
architects  and  artisans  in  conjunction  with  the 
unequalled,  untiring  energy  of  the  master  spirit, 
unsurpassed,  unapproachable  of  all  concerned. 


112  THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 


CHAPTEE  XXI. 

COXFUSIOX    OF   TOXGUES. 

CLOSELY  approaching  nightfall,  on  this,  the  last 
day,  work  meantime  having  progressed  both  rapidly 
and  satisfactorily,  the  twelfth  story  so  nearly  fin 
ished  as  to  require  but  a  single  tier  of  brick,  and 
architects,  contractors,  foremen,  laborers,  all  re 
turn  to  camp  amid  a  scene  of  general  rejoicing 
from  the  fact  that  the  present  outlook  is  uncom 
monly  favorable  for  speedy  cessation  of  the  work, 
it  being  understood  that  all  labor  will  cease  until 
the  commencement  of  another  year,  the  main 
reason  for  this  course  of  action  lying  in  the  fact 
that  funds  are  running  low,  the  treasury  nearly 
empty.  Word,  however,  lately  received,  indicates 
that  large  sums  of  money  will  be  forthcoming  on 
the  first  day  of  the  new  year,  some  eight  months 
hence,  furthermore,  a  general  state  of  good  feeling 
prevails  just  now,  owing  to  the  fact  that  all  have 
been  paid  their  wages  in  full,  amounting  to  no  in 
considerable  sum;  hence,  as  they  gather  about  the 
board  in  interest  of  the  evening  meal,  the  word 
goes  round:  "No  more  work  after  the  close  of  the 
month." 

Little  wonder  then  all  should  be  found  in  ami 
able  mood,  largely  intensified  by  the  reflection  that 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT, 

their  homes,  many  of  them  far  distant,  will  ere  long 
overflow  with  happiness  consequent  on  well-filled 
pockets,  sure  sesame  to  generous  opening  of  hearts 
and  warm  welcome. 

The  labors  of  the  day  ended,  Abiram  repairs 
to  his  luxurious  home,  situated  a  little  distance 
away  on  a  beautiful  prominence  near  the  outskirts 
of  the  town,  and  now  that  everything  has  gone  so 
well,  his  inmost  thoughts  outwardly  displayed,  an 
uncommonly  cheerful  demeanor  lending  an  addi 
tional  charm  to  his  naturally  composed  features, 
for  he  has  gained  a  name,  and  if  all  comes  out 
well,  honors  will  flow  in  upon  him  without  stint; 
indeed,  the  proudest  of  all  the  earth's  most  re 
nowned  monarchs  may  well  cry  aloud  in  envy,  for 
he  has  outstripped  them  all  in  the  race  for  glory. 

Noticing  Abiram's  happy  mood,  his  wife  goes 
out  to  meet  him,  and,  should  there  be  gratifying 
news  in  connection  with  his  manifold  labors,  con 
gratulate  him,  so  she  solicitously  inquires  the  cause 
for  this  apparent  change  from  his  usual  calm,  some 
might  call  it  stern,  demeanor,  to  one  so  light  and 
cheerful  ?  Whereupon  he  answers :  "Know  ye  not, 
Jernsha,  that  our  work  in  nearing  completion  re 
veals  from  the  prodigious  height  attained,  the 
domes,  minarets,  spires,  and  I  don't  know  but  I 
might  be  justified  in  saying  even  the  battlement  of 
heaven  ?  And  I  much"  misdoubt  if  the  pearly  gates 
of  Paradise  be  not  at  this  moment  put  in  order 
in  anticipation  of  our  arrival.  But,  Jerusha,  I 
would  to  the  table,  for  I  am  well  nigh  onto  fam 
ishing,  and  after  my  bodily  wants  are  attended  to 
I  will  to  my  couch,  "f or  the  morrow's  sun  must  not 
find  me  in*  bed,  as  there  is  much  to  be  done  in 


11-i     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

anticipation  of  cessation  of  work.  Again,  I  am 
fully  determined  on  awarding  my  faithful  co 
adjutors  a  period  of  rest  commensurate  with  the 
amount  of  their  labors,  to  which,  I  am  positive,  no 
one  will  deny  their  right,  and  to  which  they,  as 
well  as  myself,  are  entitled.  Forty  years  of  con 
tinuous  application,  Jerusha,  should,  I  am  positive, 
suffice  for  the  first  bout,  after  which  comes  the 
supreme  struggle,  when  it  is  fair  to  presume,  the 
great  tower  will  have  been  finished,  yet,  at  the  best, 
a  half  moon  must  be  consumed  in  the  completing 
of  the  present  work;  then  for  rest." 

The  great  Abiram  now  gives  himself  up  to  the 
good  things  set  before  him,  enjoying  them  as  he 
has  not  done  since  the  beginning  of  the  work, 
for  his  mind  has  been  so  preoccupied  that  the 
pleasures  of  the  table  were  of  secondary  impor 
tance,  so,  after  finishing  his  supper,  he  repairs  to 
his  couch  in  expectant  slumber,  peradventure  to  see 
visions ;  nevertheless  stern  realities  are  ere  long  to 
stare  him  in  the  face,  in  comparison  to  which 
dreams  and  visions  are  naught  but  shadows. 

All  unconscious  of  the  multitude  of  strange 
sounds  common  to  a  great  encampment,  the  am 
bitious  man  sleeps,  giving  no  thought  to  the  men 
acing  troubles  in  active  preparation,  and  about  to 
break  on  his  unconscious  head,  for  were  he  but- 
knowing  to  the  truth  he  would  at  once  take  meas 
ures  to  avoid  the  calamity  that  the  morrow's  sun 
would  look  down  upon.  Aye,  a  spectacle  wholly 
unanticipated,  unlocked,  unprepared  for.  , 

Anon  the  trumpet  blast,  and  the  scarcely  rested 
multitude  of  heroic  workers  rise  from  their  beds, 
partake  of  a  hurried  breakfast,  then  up  and  away 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     115 

to  their  accustomed  daily  toil.  And  now  from  the 
direction  of  his  not  far  distant  home  appears 
Abiram.  He  passes  along  until  he  at  length  notices 
one  of  the  principal  contractors,  who,  on  approach, 
returns  the  kindly  greeting  to  his  chief,  then,  in 
relation  to  some  minor  affair  pertaining  to  his 
official  duties,  essays  speech. 

Imagine  the  surprise  depicted  on  the  face  of 
Abiram,  for  on  his  employee  opening  his  mouth, 
prefacing  his  speech,  words  without  let  or  hin 
drance  flow  therefrom,  but  of  what  avail?  for  to 
the  chief  they  are  but  so  much  gibberish. 

In  the  belief  that  some  joke  was  being  played 
upon  him,  Abiram  in  angered  tones  cries:  "Go 
to,  Azael !  Why  address  thy  chief  in  this  unseemly 
manner  ?  Why  essay  speech  in  this  outlandish  gib 
berish  ?  Doth  not  the  Hebrew,  thy  mother  tongue, 
suffice,  that  thou  must  needs  concoct  thy  hideous 
jokes?  Desist,  I  beg,  and  take  heed  hereafter 
to  thy  ways,  else  it  will  the  worse  for  thee  in  that 
thy  fair  fame  is  at  stake.  Thus  I  give  thee  fair 
warning." 

Alas !  the  great  Abiram's  speech  is  not  one  whit 
better  received,  because  not  more  capable  of  com 
prehension  that  that  of  his  servant,  Azael,  who 
has  but  just  now  addressed  him. 

Others  appear  on  the  scene,  approaching  the 
chief  in  expectation  of  making  known  their  wants, 
but  'tis  all  the  same;  no  one  can  in  the  slightest 
degree  understand  the  other,  whereon,  the  brow  of 
Abiram  becomes  overshadowed  in  anxiety,  his  soul 
is  filled  with  dread  and  convulsed  with  appre 
hended  danger,  for  that  some  unforeseen  calamity 
is  impending  and  on  the  point  of  overtaking  him 


116     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

his  own  soul  and  intuitive  perceptions  tell  him 
only  too  well. 

Summoning  up  his  courage  he  again  strives  in 
effort  to  inquire  the  cause  of  this  strange  proceed 
ing,  for  that  there  is  something  at  the  bottom  of 
the  affair  that  needs  clearing  up  he  is  convinced. 
Yet,  as  before,  nothing  comes  of  it,  so  he  solilo 
quizes,  "Have  the  gods  for  a  verity  taken  this  thing 
in  hand  looking  to  my  downfall  ?" 

"Remember  ye  not,  Abiram,  the  prophetic  words, 
'In  the  day  thou  despiseth  my  words,  hearkening 
not  unto  them,  in  that  selfsame  day  shall  thy 
works  come  to  naught'?  Thou  would'st  not  re 
member,  thou  would'st  not  hearken.  Thy  future 
shall  be  given  to  repentance.  The  unwieldly 
structure  thou,  in  thy  egotism,  doth  style  tower, 
will  for  ever  more  stand  as  a  monument  to  thy 
stupidity,  allied  to  vanity  and  uncalled  for  ambi 
tion,  generations  to  come  gazing  thereon  as  a  relic 
of  thy  folly." 

Thoroughly  aroused,  for  he  can  conceive  no  good 
reason  for  this  serious  outbreak  on  the  part  of  one 
he  has  heretofore  looked  upon  in  the  light  of  an 
addled-brained  impostor,  Abiram,  in  his  wrath 
exclaims :  "Who  in  the  name  of  the  gods,  art  thou 
who  thus  beards  the  lion  in  his  den,  so  to  speak?" 

When  on  the  instant  the  earth  trembles,  as  in 
the  throes  of  an  earthquake,  a  voice  from  above 
speaks :  "Abiram,  beware  what  is  said !"  •  Thus 
causing  a  thrill  of  terror  to  surge  through  the 
hearts  of  all  there  assembled. 

Affrighted  and  trembling,  all  bow  the  knee  in 
token  of  submission,  each  head  droops  in  contri 
tion,  every  eye  seeks  the  ground,  for  no  one  dares 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     117 

to  look  up,  yet  ere  their  faculties  are  entirely  re 
covered  their  ears  are  assailed  by  a  multitude  of 
incongruous  sounds  emanating  from  the  beasts  of 
burden,  who,  in  harness,  stand  awaiting  signal  to 
move,  and  having  caught  the  infection,  are  scarcely 
less  terrified  than  their  masters. 

In  the  midst  of  the  confusion  that  so  largely 
prevails,  voices  in  startled  tones  are  heard :  "To 
the  tower !"  When  casting  their  eyes  in  the  direc 
tion  of  the  noble  structure,  flames  are  beheld  issuing 
from  the  upper  windows. 

"Aha  !"  again  cries  Jubal.  "Methinks  'twas  said 
'the  Great  Captain  would  erect  a  tower  impervious 
to  the  flames,  and  against  which  neither  fire  nor 
water  should  prevail.' 

"Lift  up  thine  eyes,  0  mighty  Chieftain!  Be 
hold  the  brick  the  artisans  did  so  deftly  lay.  See 
how  they  melt  and  give  way  before  the  raging 
flames.  Yet  I  would  not  at  this  time  entirely 
destroy  the  work  of  thy  hands.  Nay !  let  it  stand 
until  such  time  as  the  commoner  elements  shall 
have  done  their  work." 

The  words  hardly  escaping  the  lips  of  the  seer 
when  lo,  the  fires  are  quenched ;  Abiram  meanwhile 
casting  about  to  make  inquiry,  finds  the  Master's 
envoy  departed,  the  Great  Chief's  hopes  and  as 
pirations  likewise. 

And  now  is  heard  from  all  sides  a  veritable  babel 
of  voices  in  contention,  each  striving  to  outdo  the 
other  in  unavailing  attempt  to  be  understood  by 
his  neighbor. 

Again  all  eyes  are  turned  toward  the  towering 
structure,  whose  majestic  proportions,  outlined 
against  a  background  of  purplish  sky,  bear  truth- 


118     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

ful  witness  to  the  excellent  workmanship  of  the 
builders.  That  tower  whose  pinnacles  almost  pierce 
the  sky,  as  Abiram,  only  the  evening  before  hailed 
Jerusha  in  the  words:  "They  reveal  the  gateway 
entering  on  heaven's  portals,  wherein  are  discerned 
minarets,  spires,  domes  and  battlements  rising 
above  the  walls  of  Paradise." 

Abiram  is  suddenly  confronted  by  a  conclave 
of  architects,  master  builders  and  contractors,  who 
have  taken  this  opportunity  to  hold  speech  with 
their  employer  as  to  the  proper  course  to  be  pur 
sued  and  measures  taken  in  this  deplorable  emer 
gency;  yet,  while  lips  part  and  words  flow  in 
ceaseless  strain,  they  might  as  well  be  given  to  the 
winds. 

About  to  give  up  the  contest  in  despair,  a  happy 
thought  strikes  Abiram,  so  as  a  last  resort  he  calls 
for  writing  materials,  in  the  belief  that  while  mere 
uttered  words  were  of  no  effect,  he  could  see  no 
good  reason  why,  by  adopting  chirography,  success 
should  not  crown  the  effort,  so  seizing  pen,  dips  it 
in  the  ink,  applies  it  to  the  parchment,  thus  at 
tempting  to  record  that  which  speech  failed  fo 
represent. 

The  pen  moves  swiftly,  sentences  are  quickly 
framed,  whole  paragraphs  turned  off  as  never  be 
fore;  a  page  is  filled,  then  another,  until  the  en 
tire  parchment  is  lined  with  what  was  presumed 
to  be  genuine  Hebrew  characters.  The  finished 
manuscript  is  passed  to  the  architect-in-chief.  The 
learned  man  scans  the  workmanship,  pores  over 
the  contents,  again  and  again  seeks  its  translation, 
indeed,  resorts  to  every  known  method  whereby  to 
comprehend  its  significance,  until  at  last,  thor- 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     119 

oughly  disheartened,  he  hands  the  manuscript  to 
a  prominent  official,  who,  adjusting  his  spectacles, 
ventures  on  a  like  process,  but  with  no  better  re 
sults.  Finally,  and  as  a  last  resort,  a  general  con 
sultation  is  agreed  upon,  yet,  when  put  in  force 
the  outcome  is  worse,  if  possible,  than  either  or  all 
the  others.  Judging  from  appearances  it  had  be 
come  only  too  evident  that  nothing  could  in  any 
event  be  accomplished,  delay  only  adding  intensity 
to  a  conflict  wherein  the  powers  of  the  air  were 
in  contention  with  the  selfish  interests  of  earth's 
poor  mortals.  Each  of  the  company,  in  token  of 
farewell,  extends  a  hand  to  their  disappointed  chief, 
then  take  their  departure,  full  well  assured  that 
pursue  whatever  course  they  may,  struggle  against 
fate  as  they  will,  the  Master's  wrath  cannot  in  any 
event  be  assuaged,  nor  can  the  pearly  gates,  al 
though  "ajar,"  be  reached  by  the  stairway  route. 

Again  the  trumpet  sounds  "assembly,"  when  the 
vast  array  of  workmen  for  the  last  time  congregate; 
yet,  ere  a  final  leave-taking  is  indulged,  many 
things  must  be  looked  after  by  way  of  settling  up 
affairs.  Horses,  camels,  bullocks,  carts,  and  a  mul 
titudinous  array  of  effects  accumulated  along  a  suc 
cession  of  busy  years,  are  to  be  disposed  of;  never 
theless,  upon  attempting  settlement,  do  their  best, 
they  are  simply  working  at  cross  purposes,  for  no 
one  can  in  the  least  understand  the  other. 

At  this  juncture  a  skilled  artisan  hits  on  an  ex 
pedient  whereby  the  difficulty  seems  in  fair  way 
to  be  overcome,  so  in  furtherance  of  the  scheme 
he  jots  down  a  certain  number  of  symbolical  char 
acters,  each  numeral  representing  a  specified  sum, 
thence  attaching  these  characters  to  a  like  number 


120     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

of  beasts  of  burden,  wheeled  vehicles  or  other 
articles  of  value,  these  to  be  sold  or  bartered,  the 
entire  outfit  is  ere  long  disposed  of.  Leave-taking, 
now  the  order  of  the  day,  is  taken  advantage  of, 
some  departing  with  regret,  others  rejoicing,  for 
they  are  eager  to  be  on  the  homeward  route,  while 
many  uniting  in  distinct  bands,  journey  to  distant 
lands  where  hitherto  uninhabited  portions  of  the 
globe  are  made  to  feel  the  regenerating  influences  of 
well-directed  effort. 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     121 


PART  SECOND. 


CHAPTER  XXII. 

LEAVE  OF  ABSESTCE  FOR  THE  COLONEL. 

(The  original  record,,  as  transcribed  from  the 
silver  tablets,,  came  to  an  end  at  the  close  of  the 
foregoing  chapter,  and  while  seemingly  truthful, 
must,,  in  some  of  its  aspects,  have  been  largely  fore 
cast,  inasmuch  as  the  purported  author  of  the 
strange  history  was  lost  to  mortal  ken  many  long 
ages  ago,  to  again  appear  in  materialized  form  only 
as  the  "Old  Hermit  of  the  Mountains.") 

RETURNING  to  the  beginning  of  the  story,  we 
find  recorded  that  shortly  after  Colonel  Ashbur- 
ton's  return  from  the  East  Indies,  in  the  role  of 
Commander-in-Chief  of  Her  Majesty's  regiment, 
"The  Royal  Blues,"  he  was  ordered  to  the  distant 
province  of  Canada,  so  after  a  somewhat  lengthy 
and  tedious  voyage,  the  Colonel  is  set  down  in  camp 
near  the  wealthy  and  populous  city  of  Toronto. 
Through  it  all  the  mind  of  the  Queen's  active  offi 
cial  is  constantly  tormented,  and  above  all,  agi 
tated  by  the  thought  of  his  late  exploits  wherein 
the  "Mysterious  Isle"  figured  so  prominently,  for 


122     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

it  had  become  a  settled  conviction  that  more  ex 
tended  and  intelligent  exploration  might  possibly 
result  in  discoveries  far  outvying  those  already 
achieved.  Furthermore,  so  firmly  fixed  and  so 
thoroughly  imbued  was  his  mind  in  the  belief  that 
it  had  become  a  serious  matter,  nor  was  he  in  reality 
fitted  to  perform  the  arduous  duties  pertaining  to 
the  distinguished  office  he  held,  viz.,  Commander- 
in-Chief  of  Her  Royal  Majesty's  Colonial  Forces. 
In  point  of  fact,  were  the  truth  known,  the 
Colonel's  days  were  largely  given  up  to  dreams, 
his  nights  freighted  with  uncanny  visions. 

In  this  disagreeable  emergency  be  resolves  to  pe 
tition  the  home  government  for  another  and  longer 
leave  of  absence,  failing  in  which,  he  would  take 
immediate  steps  looking  to  withdrawal  from  the 
service ;  therefore  as  a  first  step  to  carry  the  ar 
rangement  into  effect,  he  indites  a  letter  to  the 
War  Department,  detailing  in  full  the  object 
sought,  likewise  measures  necessary  to  its  accom 
plishment. 

The  Colonel's  communication,  forwarded  to  its 
proper  destination,  results  in  an  answer  conveying 
the  gratifying  assurance  that  the  petition  is  not 
only  granted,  but  leave  of  absence  extending  to  a 
period  of  two  years,  with  power  to  draw  on  the 
National  Treasury  for  such  sums  as  might  be 
deemed  necessary  in  furtherance  of  the  object 
sought. 

To  say  the  Colonel  was  elated  upon  receipt  of 
this  gratifying  piece  of  news  would  but  illy  ex 
press  his  feelings,  for  the  proposal  was  so  far  in 
excess  of  his  most  sanguine  hopes,  to  say  nothing 
of  his  expectations,  that  he  was  at  first  loth  to  give 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     123 

it  credence ;  however,  coming  from  so  high  a  source, 
he  was  forced  to  the  conviction  that  due  impor 
tance  must  have  been  attached  to  the  ultimate  re 
sults  of  an  undertaking  wherein  sound  judgment, 
untiring  energy  and  large  outlay  must,  from  the 
necessity  of  the  case,  play  a  leading  part,  so  turn 
ing  over  the  command  to  a  brother  officer,  in  whom 
he  had  implicit  confidence^  he  sets  sail  on  a  home 
ward  bound  steamer. 

A  speedy  voyage,  and  his  native  England  is 
reached,  whereupon  the  Colonel,  with  his  accus 
tomed  activity,  begins  preparations  looking  to  the 
carrying  forward  of  the  scheme,  greatly,  at  the 
outset,  facilitated  by  the  steamer  "The  City  of 
Japan"  being  put  in  commission  and  placed  at  his^ 
service. 

In  the  light  of  a  well-merited  hero,  past  exploits 
a  notable  factor  contributing  to  his  widespread, 
popularity,  Ashburton's  fame  is  known  far  and 
wide,  wherefore,  'twas  scarcely  matter  of  wonder 
that  he  should  be  besieged  with  applicants  for  the 
several  positions  at  his  disposal. 

Among  the  large  number  of  applicants  were 
several  of  the  most  noted  savants  of  the  kingdom, 
also  eminent  histriographers,  each  basing  claim  on 
their  previous  record.  Notwithstanding  all  this, 
three  only,  and  those  the  best  known,  were  granted 
the  privilege  of  accompanying  the  noteworthy  ex 
pedition  in  the  above  capacity;  while  one  other, 
under  orders  of  a  well-known  metropolitan  journal 
— "The  London  Times" — as  correspondent  and 
official  reporter,  whose  exploits  and  most  notable 
achievements  will  be  found  in  detail  further  on. 


124     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 


CHAPTER  XXIII. 

THE    OUTWARD   BOUND   VOYAGE. 

On  board  the  British  steamer,  "The  City  of  Japan" 

June  13,  1883. 

ANCHOR  hoisted  and  all  things  in  readiness,  the 
great  ship  steams  from  out  the  harbor. 

As  the  enterprise  is  one  of  unusual  occurrence, 
its  object  of  noteworthy  importance,  special  care 
has  been  observed  in  the  selection  of  officers  and 
crew,  also  the  most  rigid  scrutiny  in  general 
equipment  and  efficiency,  hence  the  remark  was 
frequently  heard  that  few  vessels  had  sailed  from 
that  port  under  more  favorable  conditions,  the  in 
ference  drawn  that  the  leading  spirit  of  the  un 
equalled  enterprise  has  at  last  reached  the  goal  of 
his  ambition,  peradventure,  nearing  the  topmost 
pinnacle  of  fame,  with  fair  prospect  of  ultimately 
gaining  the  coveted  prize,  so  the  enthusiastic 
Colonel  may  be  seen  standing  on  deck  of  as  fine  a 
vessel  as  his  native  land  can  well  boast,  and  now 
glancing  backward,  he  beholds  Albion's  fair  shores 
fast  receding,  while  his  thoughts  reach  forward 
to  the  time  when  he  will  have  it  in  his  power  to 
place  before  an  enraptured  world  mementoes  of 
bygone  ages,  peradventure  records  dating  away 
back  to  the  very  "Beginning,"  and  surely  the 
Colonel's  noble  bearing  and  upright  carriage  may 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     125 

•easily  be  construed  as  betokening  an  ambition  that 
•will  not  be  satisfied  until  the  grand  work  he  has 
undertaken  shall  have  been  fully  accomplished. 
Furthermore,  his  unexaggerated  manifestations  of 
undaunted  courage  give  tone  to  the  entire  ship's 
company,  who  vie  in  endeavor  to  exhibit  to  their 
enthusiastic  leader  that  they  are  in  thorough  accord 
and  active  sympathy  with  his  mission. 

In  addition  to  her  powerful  engines,  "The  City 
of  Japan"  is  bark  rigged,  hence  there  would  seem 
nothing  in  the  way  of  a  quick  voyage,  so,  under 
full  press  of  steam,  in  conjunction  with  an  immense 
breadth  of  canvas,  our  journey  is  conducted,  until 
at  the  close  of  the  thirtieth  day  out  the  purpled 
hills  of  India  are  again  seen. 

A  pilot  signalled,  anchor  is  ?oon  dropped  in  a 
harbor  whose  waters  are  of  a  transparency  that 
objects  a  hundred  or  more  feet  below  are  plainly 
visible. 

A  steam  launch  is  summoned,  and  ere  the  night 
is  fully  spent  the  ponderous  hoisting  machinery, 
destined  to  bring  to  the  surface  prehistoric  remains, 
lies  on  the  dock,  also  subsistence  for  man  and  beast 
during  the  long  inland  journey. 

On  reaching  India  the  Colonel  again  hunts  up 
his  old  servant,  Yoseph,  who  is  only  too  glad  to  be 
of  service  to  his  former  employer.  Active  steps 
are  at  once  taken,  whereby  a  trained  body  of  na 
tives  are  secured,  a  score  of  camels,  a  number  of 
bullocks,  together  with  wheeled  vehicles  and  a  half- 
dozen  horses,  ridden  by  Surgeon  Burkhardt,  the 
Colonel,  Yoseph,  and  myself,  while  the  three 
savants  are  mounted  on  the  backs  of  camels.  Thus, 
as  a  whole,  we  make  a  most  imposing  cavalcade, 


126     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT. 

especially  when  brought  up  by  a  number  of  won- 
drously  fashioned  carts,  constructed  for  the  purpose 
of  conveying  the  heavy  machinery. 

Now  well  along  toward  October,  and  as  the  wet 
season  usually  commenced  the  first  of  December, 
storm-swept  skies  and  muddy  roads  are  to  be  ex 
pected,  and  it  necessarily  stood  the  Colonel  in  hand 
to  hasten  his  departure,  for  a  long,  probably  weari 
some  journey  of  not  less  than  six  hundred  miles 
was  to  be  overcome,  a  considerable  part  of  the  way 
along  desert  wastes,  jungle  entanglements  and 
thickly  massed  wood,  so  that  travel  must  necessarily 
be  greatly  hindered ;  however,  in  no  way  inclined  to 
indulge  in  imaginary  troubles,  we  push  ahead, 
Yoseph's  extensive  knowledge  of  the  country 
through  which  we  pass  greatly  facilitating  our 
progress. 

Forty  and  seven  days'  continuous  journeying,  and 
the  lengthy  train  draws  up  alongside  a  darksome 
jungle,  within  whose  gloomy  recesses  reposes  the 
little  lake  on  whose  bosom  floats  "The  Mysterious 
Isle/' 

Tents  are  now  pitched  and  camp  set  up  in  an 
ticipation  of  a  thirty  days'  stay ;  so  it  was  conceded 
that  preparations  must  be  conducted  on  a  some 
what  extended  scale.  There  was,  however,  a  seri 
ous  drawback  to  greatly  prolonged  stay  from  the 
fact  that  lack  of  water  was  to  be  expected,  in 
which  event  the  condition  of  both  ourselves  and 
mute  friends  might  become  hazardous.  Never 
theless,  as  the  lake  was  not  so  very  far  distant,  it 
was  hoped  the  difficulty  might  be  overcome. 

Nightfall  approaches,  and  what  a  charming  spec 
tacle  !  Scores  of  camp-fires,  from  which  ascend 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     127 

thin  wreaths  of  smoke  and  bright  flame  illumi 
nating  a  large  space  of  contiguous  territory;  noth 
ing  to  disturb  the  brooding  silence,  other  than 
sounds  common  to  gatherings  of  like  character,  for 
we  are  hundreds  of  leagues  distant  from  the  habi 
tation  of  man ;  even  the  everyday  wayfarer's  tread, 
common  to  other  parts,  is  seldom  heard  in  this  re 
mote  portion  of  the  kingdom. 


128     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 


CHAPTER  XXIV. 

EXPLORATION. 

USHERED  in  by  the  bugle's  stirring  note,  dawn  at 
length  appears,  the  far-sounding  tones  caught  up 
and  returned  by  the  wild  denizens  of  wood  and 
jungle, — suggestive — as  I  was  convinced,  later  con 
firmed,  of  concealed,  deadly  foes,  who  would  gladly 
make  a  feast  off  human  flesh,  to  which  they  were 
entire  strangers,  but  whether  they  would  for  all 
time  remain  so  was  a  problem  yet  to  be  solved. 

Again  were  enacted  scenes  of  the  previous  night, 
gleaming  camp-fires,  breakfast,  then  away,  the  same 
pathway  leading  to  the  shores  of  the  lake,  which, 
being  reached,  were  found  lined  by  wild  beasts, 
congregated  to  quench  their  morning  thirst,  while 
the  waters  are  dotted  with  aquatic  fowl,  evidently 
engaged  in  making  all  the  noise  possible,  thus  seek 
ing  to  drive  from  their  shores  the  strange  beings  in 
tent  on  taking  peaceable  possession,  if  possible, 
otherwise  by  force.  However,  on  our  appearance 
the  wild  beasts  haste  to  their  jungle  haunts,  the 
fowl  seeking  safety  in  flight. 

The  shores  cleared  of  these  would-be  barriers  to 
our  approach,  a  squad  of  natives  under  Surgeon 
Burkhardt  are  detailed  as  rear  guard,  the  others  re 
turning  to  camp  preparatory  to  transferring  the 
bulky  hoisting  machinery. 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     129 

The  stout  carts  hauled  by  bullocks,  several  yoke 
to  each  vehicle,  make  their  way  slowly,  laboriously 
along,  a  wheel  now  and  then  sinking  deep  in  the 
spongy  soil,  extricated  only  by  the  combined  efforts 
of  the  drivers,  but,  notwithstanding  these  draw-- 
backs,  mid-afternoon  finds  the  heavy  loads  in  readi 
ness  to  be  transferred  to  the  island  shore. 

In  order  to  facilitate  the  tedious  operation, — in 
fact  none  other  was  available — rafts  were  hurriedly 
put  together,  which  upon  being  tested,  were  found 
to  answer  the  designed  purpose  admirably,  for  with 
very  little  labor  it  was  quickly  drawn  across  the 
narrow  channel,  and  placed  in  position  for  being 
loaded,  and  now,  as  night  was  fast  approaching,  it 
was  thought  best  to  defer  operations  until  morning. 

Again  rest  and  slumber,  an  early  breakfast,  then 
to  work.  The  Colonel  active,  vigilant,  overseeing 
everything,  for  this  is  a  day  in  which  his  hopes  are 
brought  to  fruition,  else  dashed  in  pieces,  and  as  in 
this  last  attempt  he  naturally  desires  the  most 
thorough  investigation,  the  surface  of  the  island  is 
excavated  to  a  considerable  depth,  radiating  from, 
center  to  circumference  in  all  directions. 

As  a  preliminary  step  to  this,  however,  the  lofty 
monarches  of  the  forest  are  first  felled,  then  cut  in 
lengths  suitable  for  easy  handling,  afterward 
thrown  into  the  waters  of  the  lake.  Brushwood 
and  other  obstructions  are  cleared  away,  and  all 
made  ready  for  pick,  spade  and  shovel. 

In  this  manner  is  the  work  carried  on  without 
halt  or  stoppage,  for  the  space  of  twenty  days. 
The  darkness  of  the  night  in  no  wise  contributing 
to  hindrance,  because  of  huge  bon-fires  blazing 
from  different  parts  of  the  island,  until  at  the  last 


130     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

the  whole  area  of  the  little  isle  is  thrown  up  to  a 
depth  exceeding  ten  feet,  but  nothing  disclosed, 
other  than  the  tomb  brought  to  light  on  the  Colo 
nel's  former  visit. 

Shears  placed  in  position,  tackling  applied,  to 
these  fastened  pulley  blocks,  and  stout  hempen 
cables,  from  which  depend  wrought  iron  grappling 
hooks,  which  lowered,  grasp  the  cumbersome  sar 
cophagus,  then  by  the  combined  power  of  a  dozen 
hands  it  is  quickly  raised  to  the  surface,  while  the 
whole  company  gather  round  in  anxious  expectancy 
as  to  what  will  be  disclosed,  yet  illy  prepared  for 
the  grand  things  brought  to  view,  for  here  side  by 
side,  are  three  separate  and  distinct  coffins. 

Sand,  mold  and  dirt  cleared  away  reveal  to  the 
interested  onlooker — what?  For  answer,  exquisitely 
carved  figures.  Of  whom?  Questions  soon  to  be 
answered  to  the  amazement  and  unbounded  aston 
ishment  of  all  present. 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     131 


CHAPTER  XXV. 

STARTLING  REVELATIONS. 

AT  the  close  of  the  last  chapter  we  were  just  en 
tering  on  exploration  which  is  herewith  disclosed, 
viz.: 

Commencing  at  the  central  tomb  are  to  be  seen 
the  lineaments  of  a  face  deeply  cut  in  the  marble- 
like  surface,  indicative  of  superior  intellect,  at  the 
same  time  attached  to  a  form  of  almost  gigantic 
proportions.  The  inscription  on  this  tomb, — the 
characters  were  fairly  legible — on  being  deciphered 
reveal  these  significant  words,  to  wit : 

"These  be  the  remains  of  Orimentes,  the  first 
man  moulded  from  the  dust  of  the  earth  on  the 
sixth  and  last  day  of  creation." 

Signed,  C.  W. 

The  tomb  on  the  right  bore  this  inscription : 

"Within  this  sarcophagus  lies  all  that  is  mortal 
of  Orimentides,  the  first  woman,  fashioned  out  of 
a  rib  taken  from  the  side  of  Orimentes,  the  first 
man,  while  in  deep  sleep." 

The  third  and  last,  and  to  my  mind  the  most 
interesting  of  all,  was  a  tomb  whereon  was  recorded 
the  following  simple  epitaph : 

"  'Tis  here  repose  the  remains  of  the  friend,  and 


132     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT. 

once  while  companion  of  the  first  created  man  and 
woman,,  whose  respective  names  are  Orimentes  and 
Orimentides.  Through  the  evil  machinations, 
false  representations  and  alluring  promises  of  the 
original  tempter,, — the  Serpent, — Orimentides  fell, 
thus,  contributing  to  a  world's  downfall." 

Upon  witnessing  these  remarkable  evidences, 
corroborating,  as  they  evidently  must,  the  truth 
fulness  of  later  day  records,  Colonel  Ashburton  was 
nearly  overcome  by  his  overwrought  emotions. 

Shears,  ropes  and  pulleys  again  adjusted,  and 
brought  to  bear,  result  in  raising  other  bodies  of 
like  character,  all  dating  away  back  to  the  very 
beginning  or  the  misty  ages  of  a  long  forgotten 
past.  Among  the  number, — doubtless  the  most  nota 
ble — was  that  of  the  renowned  Ark  builder,  and  one 
of  the  original  navigators — Aristid°s. 

On  the  outer  surface  of  the  lid  of  this  tomb  in 
the  engraving  was  the  subject  of  a  wondrously 
modeled  craft,  suggestive  of  enormous  capacity 
and  wondrous  solidity,  while  underneath  was  a 
miniature  of  the  principal  architect  and  leader  of 
the  unique  scheme. 

The  next  in  order  was  the  tomb  of  Abiram,  the 
celebrated  tower  builder,  whereon  was  faithfully 
depicted, — and  presumably  accurate — representa 
tion  of  a  structure,  whereby  the  celestial  gates  were 
to  be  easily  reached,  accompanied  by  the  following 
paragraph:  "Let  not  thy  ambition  override  thy 
good  judgment  lest  a  like  fate  overtake  thee." 

In  this  manner  was  the  work  carried  on,  tomb 
after  tomb  unearthed.  The  antiquated  relics  con 
clusively  showing,  as  the  Colonel  had  previously  re- 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT.     133 

marked,  "the  Isle  of  the  Lake"  was  undoubtedly 
a  common  burial  ground  where  the  most  remarkable 
characters  of  prehistoric  times  had  found  a  last 
resting  place. 

The  entire  surface  of  the  island  having  been  dug 
to  a  depth  considerably  exceeding  the  original  esti 
mate,  yet  nothing  farther  discovered,  it  only  now 
remained  to  transfer  the  priceless  treasures  to  the 
main — and  thence  through  the  dense  jungle  to  the 
site  of  the  encampment — a  task  of  no  little  magni 
tude  when  taking  into  account  the  enlarged  weight 
and  attendant  inconvenience  consequent  on  hauling 
the  cumbersome  loads  over  the  light,  porous  soil; 
however,  by  persistent  effort  and  wearisome  labor, 
camp  was  at  length  reached. 

Upon  consultation  it  was  deemed  best  to  leave 
the  caskets  unopened  until  on  shipboard,  when 
plenty  of  time  would  be  at  our  disposal.  "More 
over,"  said  the  Colonel,  "the  inscriptions  on  the  lids 
of  the  several  caskets  indicate  their  ownership." 

But  what  of  our  friends,  the  savants,  who  hav 
ing  witnessed  achievements  so  far  outvying  in  im 
portance  anything  recorded  in  the  annals  of  Archaa- 
ology,  or  disclosed  in  the  realms  of  science,  can 
hardly  find  words  whereby  to  express  their  delight, 
and  on  looking  over  these  sacred  relics  are  cease 
lessly  led  to  exclaim  as  in  the  quotation  of  the  Colo 
nel's,  "Great,  0  God,  are  Thy  works,  and  Thy 
ways  past  finding  out." 

Notebook  and  pencil  are  quickly  produced,  pass 
ing  events  recorded  with  the  most  faithful  accuracy 
as  connected  with  these  important  discoveries,  to 
gether  with  the  island  scenery,  which  was  to  them 
an  entirely  new  feature. 


134     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

The  carts  loaded  to  their  full  capacity,  and 
drawn  tip  alongside  the  encampment,  were  now 
prepared  for  the  start,  by  harnessing  bullocks  and 
camels,  thus,  all  things  in  readiness  for  an  early 
leave,  when  at  the  last  moment  the  Colonel  hesi 
tates,  and  begins  to  question  as  to  the  advisability 
of  setting  out  until  men  and  cattle  shall  have  be 
come  thoroughly  rested  from  the  fatigue  attendant 
on  their  late  severe  labors,  "For,"  said  he,  "a  long 
and  tedious  journey  lies  before  us." 

Thus  in  ever-varying  mood,  the  contemplated 
change  seemingly  occupying  his  thoughts  to  the 
exclusion  of  more  weighty  matters,  for  it  cer 
tainly  was  a  difficult  task  to  decide  as  to  which  was 
the  better  course,  the  Colonel  was  suddenly  brought 
to  a  standstill  by  the  appearance  of  a  strange,  un 
wonted  spectacle,  for,  coming  to  our  startled  ears 
was  a  low,  monotonous,  rumbling  sound,  momently 
increasing  in  volume  until  the  whole  heavens  were 
choked  with  the  roar,  the  earth  vibrating  and 
trembling  as  in  the  throes  of  some  one  of  nature's 
mighty  convulsions. 

The  atmosphere  becomes  stagnant,  without  sign 
of  life  or  apparent  motion.  The  camels  affrighted, 
strain  at  the  tugs  in  frantic  effort  to  break  away 
from  the  carts.  Bullocks  moan,  horses  plunge  and 
rear  in  very  desperation,  jungle  beasts  howl  in 
terror,  the  birds  of  the  air  spread  their  wings  in 
flight,  ill-omened  crows  flock  to  a  neighboring  tree 
top,  cawing  their  displeasure.  The  natives  with 
uplifted  voice  fall  prone  to  the  earth,  beseeching 
the  all-powerful  Allah  to  appear  in  interest  of  his 
devoted  followers. 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     135 


CHAPTER  XXVI. 

THE  CATASTROPHE. 

TURNING  in  the  direction  whence  the  sounds 
emanate  dense  volumes  of  smoke,  mingled  with 
bright  flashes  of  flame,, are  observed  rising;  boulders 
of  huge  proportions  and  immense  weight  are  pro 
jected  high  in  air,  while  the  earth  for  leagues  in 
every  direction  quivers  and  shakes  as  though  some 
diabolical,  or  other  potent  influence,  were  in  con 
spiracy  looking  to  our  swift  destruction. 

To  add  to  the  horror  of  the  situation  the  hitherto 
clear  sky  becomes  overcast  with  great  masses  of 
dark,  threatening  clouds  from  which  leap  flashes 
of  vivid  lightning,  and  thunder  roll. 

The  sun — but  a  little  way  above  the  horizon — 
wears  the  look  of  an  immense  globe  of  liquid  fire 
against  a  background  of  stony  gray. 

At  this  moment  his  unkempt  snowy  locks  waving 
in  the  morning  breeze,  countenance  wearing  an  un 
earthly  light,  deep  emotion  visible  in  every  linea 
ment  of  his  face,  on  his  wrinkled  brow  faithfully 
depicted  a  purplish  hued  scar,  his  thinly  clad, 
meager  form  floating  in  mid-air,  appears  athe  Old 
Hermit  of  the  Mountain." 

Halting  in  his  aerial  flight,  he  lifts  up  his  voice 


136     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

in  the  words,  "Was  it  not  enough,  ye  men  of 
Belial,  that  ye  desecrate  the  tombs  of  the  fathers, 
that  ye  must  needs,  after  having  my  old  bones  in 
your  keeping,  do  likewise  by  theirs  ?  Thereby  lay 
ing  bare  secrets  that  should  have  been  held  invio 
late,  and  kept  as  a  sacred  trust.  Nay,  Henry  Ash- 
burton,  I  was  minded  for  this  to  hold  ye  guiltless, 
but  ye  could  not  rest  content  until  ye  had  in  pos 
session  the  remains  of  the  first  created  of  all  human 
beings,  even  to  the  tempter,  "The  Serpent.' 

"How,  then,  in  view  of  all  this  can  ye  expect 
forgiveness?  Though,  mayhap,  ye  think  your  sel 
fish  schemes  will  carry.  We  shall  see ! 

"Go  to,  then,  I  will  no  more  of  ye !  yet,  ere  thou 
riddeth  this  goodly  land  of  your  presence  I  would 
ye  cast  your  eyes  abroad,  witnessing  what  your  im 
pious  hand  hath  wrought.  Look!  I  say;  feast 
thine  eyes  on  yon  clouds  of  smoke  and  hissing 
flame,  open  thine  ears  to  the  devilish  sounds  that 
doth  rise  in  confirmation  of  thy  sacrilegious  doings 
— to  them,  stern  witnesses  of  departed  glory;  to 
thee,  overweening  desire  for  unearned  fame,  and  to 
thy  shame  as  well.  Haste,  I  say,  go  thither,  without 
loss  of  time,  then,  in  wonder  halt,  and  naught  wilt 
thou  look  upon  other  than  one  grand  scene  of  utter 
desolation,  and  after  ye  shall  have  gloated  over  the 
ruins  to  thy  heart's  content,  gather  together  thy 
ill-gotten  plunder  and  depart  the  way  ye  came,  but, 
of  this  be  assure<L  that  a  time  will  come, — the  day 
and  hour  ye  know  not — when  the  bones  so  deftly 
deposited  on  yon  hideous  carts,  shall  be  clothed  in 
garb  of  flesh.  They  will  rise  up  in  judgment,  thou 
the  victim,  they  the  victor.  For  as  much  as  I 
did  aforetime  warn  ye,  saying,  'Disturb  not  the  hal- 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     137 

lowed  remains/  and  ye  did  not  hearken,  so  in  like 
manner  will  be  the  punishment.  Moreover  as  the 
first  created  were  cast  out  from  their  rightfully  ac 
quired  inheritance,  so  wilt  thou  be  cast  adrift  from 
thy  wrongfully  acquired  possessions,  thy  life  even 
shall  be  forfeited,  yet  before  this  sad  ending  the 
sacred  remains  with  which,  as  I  said  before,  thou 
hast  freighted  yon  hideous  carts,  shall  take  on 
spirit  guise,  they  will  become  so  materialized  as  to 
compass  thee  round  about.  They  will  lay  hold  of 
thee,  after  which  thou  wilt  on  bended  knees  plead 
for  mercy,  begging  them  depart  in  peace,  yet  this 
cannot  be,  for  as  the  deep  sea  will  at  the  last  be  thy 
winding  sheet,  so  in  like  manner  will  they  follow, 
hearing  thee  company  to  the  bosom  of  the  Great 
Deep. 

"Away,  then,  monster  of  iniquity,  victim  of  over 
weening  avarice.  Go  whithersoever  thou  wilt,  but 
this,  remember,  that  not  one  jot  nor  tittle  of  the 
punishment  awarded  thee  shall  be  abated." 

The  strange,  incomprehensible  being  maintained 
his  mid-air  equipoise  during  the  time  of  the  fore 
going  colloquy,  not  the  slightest  motion  perceptible 
save  the  lifting  of  an  arm  in  emphasis  of  the 
anathemas  heaped  on  the  head  of  his  distinguished 
victim,  abruptly  disappears,  his  attenuated  form 
seeming  to  fade  away,  dematerializing  right  before 
their  very  eyes. 

The  clouds  of  dust,  flashing  flame,  and  rising 
smoke,  like  unto  the  prophetic  spirit,  have  also  dis 
appeared.  During  the  whole  time  the  foregoing 
scene  has  been  transpiring  the  enthralled  scientists 
are  engaged  in  eager  converse,  rejoicing  in  exultant 
tones  that  the  realms  of  science  were  never  before 


138     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT. 

so  burdened  with  supernal  doings,  hence  the  books 
of  record  overflowing  with  inestimable  treasures, 
for  these  worthy  savants  estimate  scenes  like  this 
from  a  scientific  standpoint  only.  Indeed,  they 
revel  in  anticipated  triumph,  believing  this  largely 
augmented  wealth  will  not  only  redound  to  their 
credit,  but  in  due  time  be  spread  on  the  pages  of 
scientific  reviews;  not  only  this,  but  will  be  dis 
played  in  the  columns  of  that  most  noted  of  all 
journals — "The  London  Daily  Times." 

The  strange,  weird  spectacle  had  for  them  few 
terrors,  but  not  so  with  myself.  Indeed,  I  knew  not 
what  to  think,  much  less  how  to  act,  yet  this  much 
I  can  honestly  vouch  for,  that  were  I  at  this  very 
moment  to  be  spirited  away  back  to  my  cozy  office 
in  the  Times  building,  nothing  in  the  world  would 
have  better  pleased  me,  not,  however,  in  that  my 
mind  was  unduly  exorcised  in  view  of  the  uncanny 
transactions,  nor  that  I  was  at  all  capable  of  com 
prehending  these  signal  manifestations  of  supernal 
agency,  notwithstanding  all  this,  I  was  fain  to 
argue  that  the  whole  affair  was  doubtless  some 
easily  explained  phenomena  wherein  nature's  do 
ings  played  no  insignificant  part,  else  some  grand 
method  of  deception — diabolical — may  be,  but  none 
the  less  effective ;  anyhow,  this  was  to  my  mind  the 
most  sensible  conclusion  at  which  I  could  arrive. 
Not  so,  however,  with  Colonel  Ashburton,  who, 
holding  strongly  to  the  supernatural,  was  most  un 
accountably,  not  to  say  fearfully  agitated;  so  to 
test  the  matter,  "the  old  fortune  teller's  veracity," 
as  put  by  Yoseph,  the  company  was  ordered  to 
retain  position  in  line,  and  to  hold  itself  in  readi 
ness  for  instant  departure,  while  accompanied  by 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT.     139 

Yosepli  and  myself,  the  Colonel  would  turn  back  to 
the  scene  of  the  late  exploration,  whence  arose  the 
explosion.  But  what  was  the  consternation  of  all 
to  find  nothing  but  a  waste  of  waters,  "the  Mys 
terious  Isle,"  together  with  the  ancient  relics  of 
mortality  had  totally  disappeared,  and  absolutely 
nothing  left  to  tell  of  what  had  been,  save  several 
floating  logs,  brushwood  and  debris  of  like  nature, 
while  a  considerable  part  of  the  lake  was  strewn, 
with  the  mangled,  lifeless  remains  of  wild  beast  and 
fowl. 

Upon  beholding  this  sudden  and  wholly  un 
locked  for  transformation,  this  rapid  change  from 
"the  little  isle  of  the  lake"  to  the  broad  waters  of 
an  inland  sea,  the  Colonel  was  for  a  second  time 
so  nearly  overcome  that  his  massive  form  trembled, 
his  military  cap  fell  from  his  shaking  head, — as 
vouched  for  by  Yoseph, — "from  an  external  up 
heaval  of  his  bristly  locks,"  his  usually  flushed 
face  assumed  a  sallow  hue,  and  while  at  all  times 
and  under  every  circumstance  esteemed  a  brave  sol 
dier,  he  was  nevertheless  at  this  particular  time 
fearfully  shaken. 

But  what  shall  be  said  of  the  return  journey, 
fraught,  as  this  necessarily  must  be,  with  in 
numerable  perils  and  hardships,  the  lateness  of  the 
season  contributing  largely  to  bad  roads,  for 
scarcely  a  day  passed  without  more  or  less  rain, 
the  wheels  of  the  heavily  laden  carts  frequently 
sinking  to  the  axles  in  the  mud,  the  hardest 
labor  only  sufficing  for  their  extrication.  While 
malarial  fever  invades  the  ranks,  many  falling 
victims  to  the  deadly  scourge. 

.Thus  was  the  journey  continued  until  nightfall 


140     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT. 

of  the  sixtieth  day,  when  our  eyes  were  gladdened 
and  our  hearts  thrilled  by  a  sight  which  caused  a 
throb  of  ecstacy  to  pervade  every  soul,  for  away  in 
the  distance,  from  "The  City  of  Japan's"  mast-head 
was  unfurled  and  floating  on  the  evening  breeze  the 
flag  of  my  native  land,  "the  Union  Jack." 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     141 


CHAPTER  XXVII. 

RETURNING  TO  ENGLAND. 

WE  were  three  days  out  on  the  homeward  voyage 
when  I  suggested  that  the  stone  enclosed  treasures 
be  opened  up,  at  the  same  time  aware  the  Colonel's 
mind  was  in  a  singular  state  of  unrest.  However, 
assenting  without  comment,  the  task  was  com 
menced,  when  his  drooping  spirits  seemed  to  re 
vive,  excitement  took  the  place  of  listlessness,  and 
he  really  seemed  on  the  point  of  becoming  the 
stout-hearted,  equipoised  man  of  the  world  as  of 
yore,  and  little  wonder,  under  the  attendant  stimu 
lating  influences  caused  by  the  remarkable  objects 
brought  to  view. 

The  first  casket  to  which  attention  was  directed, 
as  inscribed  on  the  outer  lid,  was  the  first  created 
of  all  human  beings — Orimentes. 

Unfastening  the  lid  what  do  we  discern?  A 
mass  of  bones  only  ?  Nay,  rather  a  form — to  all 
appearance — of  flesh  and  blood. 

It  now  occurred  to  me  that  speculation  had  at 
some  time  been  rife,  relative  to  the  unusual  weight 
of  this  particular  casket.  This  was,  however, 
readily  explained,  for  upon  examination  we  find  a 
body,  perfect  in  all  its  parts,  yet  of  a  consistency 
of  granite  and  of  reddish  cast. 


142     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

Upon  accurate  measurement  the  remarkable  fact 
was  disclosed  that  here  was  a  being  in  life  standing 
not  less  than  twelve  feet  three  inches  in  height, 
shoulders  three  feet  and  one  inch  in  breadth,  a 
head  of  proportionate  size,  the  weight  of  the  entire 
form — as  estimated — a  full  half  ton.  Truly  a 
magnificent  specimen  of  manhood,  wherefore  one 
might  be  led  to  the  conclusion  "that  man  was 
really  made  in  the  image  of  his  creator." 

Does  anyone  question  that  a  human  body  could 
thus  remain  intact  for  a  period, — according  to 
established  authority — of  six  thousand  years  at 
least  ?  Then  let  such  a  person  attempt  the  removal 
of  ihe  lid  of  this  casket,  for  the  joints  were  so  per 
fectly  cemented  with  some  particular  substance  as 
to  defy  the  utmost  efforts,  save  that  of  a  finely 
tempered  chisel  driven  with  sledgehammer  blows, 
whereby  its  removal  was  effected. 

From  this  pertinent  fact  it  at  once  became  ap 
parent  that  the  coffin  was  so  entirely  impervious  to 
the  outer  air,  that  the  body  might  have  remained 
in  this  same  condition  another  six  thousand  years, 
"peradventure" — as  suggested  by  an  irreverent 
sailor — "till  the  resurrection  morn." 

The  inside  of  the  casket  was  now  thoroughly 
examined,  but  nothing  revealed  save  a  number  of 
pieces  of  gold  coin.  A  second  look,  however,  ex 
torts  an  exclamation  of  surprise,  for  deeply  chiseled 
on  one  side  w?n  a  niche  guarded  by  a  slide  so  neatly 
arranged  as  to  --quire  an  expert  to  detect  anything 
but  a  perfectly  smooth  surface,  and  a  burglar 
would,  it  was  thought,  be  apt  to  get  little  for  his 
pains. 

Farther  examination  revealed  the  fact  that  within 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     143 

the  concealed  opening  were  a  series  of  beautifully 
engraved  plates,  presumably  a  record  of  the  times, 
both  coin  and  plates  dating  back  to  the  year  six 
hundred  and  ten. 

After  a  few  explosive  notes  of  genuine  surprise 
the  coins  were  carefully  laid  away  for  future  criti 
cism,  or  rather,  examination,  after  which  work  on 
the  second  casket  was  commenced. 

This  was  also  hermetically  sealed,  the  utmost 
strength  seconded  by  the  sledge  only  serving  to 
make  an  impression  on  the  flinty  compound;  how 
ever  a  few  well  directed  blows  severed  the  lid  of  a 
sarcophagus,  wherein  were  found  the  well  pre 
served  remains  of  the  first  woman — Orimentides. 

The  form  of  Orimentides  was  nine  feet  two  and 
one-half  inches  in  length,  and  of  admirable  pro 
portions.  The  lineaments  of  the  face  appearing 
careworn  and  aged,  suggestive  of  a  life  of  toil  and 
care,  possibly  tinctured  with  remorse. 

Gold  coin  bearing  even  date  with  the  others  were 
also  found,  but  no  tablets. 

"What  an  exquisite  creature  must  this  in  life 
have  been  ?  Sun  kissed  locks  falling  to  her  feet,  a 
countenance  expressive  of  thoughts  and  desires, 
only  given  to  natures  such  as  hers  undoubtedly  was, 
hence  the  appearance  of  this,  the  first  woman,  must 
have  been  truly  majestic.  Little  wonder  then  the 
Serpent's  eagerness  to  possess  her  charms,  allied  to 
intense  affection,  nor  is  it  to  be  wondered  at  that 
Orimentes  should  have  fallen  an  easy  victim  to  her 
wiles." 

'Twas  thus  I  meditated  as  looking  on  a  form, 
but  just  now  exposed  to  view,  the  long  period  of  six 
thousand  years  of  silent  repose  intervening  between 


144     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

all  that  was  mortal  of  the  first  created,  mother  of 
future  generations,  was  laid  away  within  the  dark 
some  recesses  of  the  mysterious  isle  of  the  lake,  the 
idea  intensified  by  the  thought  that  the  spirit  once 
dwelling  in  that  lovely  form  might  for  all  that  I 
knew  at  this  very  moment  be  hovering  near. 
I  was  soon  recalled  to  earth  and  earthly  things  by 
an  exclamation.  Turning,  I  found  the  Colonel 
and  a  sailor  tugging  away  for  dear  life  in  vain  at 
tempt  to  unloose  the  third  casket,  wherein  was  en 
closed — as  affirmed  by  the  inscription — the  remains 
of  Aristides. 

Nothing  was  here  disclosed  but  a  petrified  bodyy 
"yet  hold !  What  is  this  I  see  ?"  my  eye  on  the 
instant  lighting  on  a  projection  at  the  farther  end 
of  the  casket. 

"Hold,"  again  I  cry,  and  well  were  we  repaid  for 
so  doing,  for  within  a  hollowed  chamber  extending 
the  whole  length  of  the  sarcophagus,  was  a  well 
preserved  model  of  the  vessel  wherein  were  saved 
and  preserved  the  progenitors  of  the  entire  human, 
family,  commonly  known  as  "The  Ark." 

"Were  confirmation  of  the  universal  deluge  re 
quired,  other  than  that  developed  from  biblical 
record,  here  we  have  it,"  sententiously  spoke  the 
Colonel.  "Furthermore,"  he  continues,  "I  con 
sider  this  relic  of  greater  importance  than  all  the 
others,  and  that  is  saying  a  good  deal,"  and  well 
might  the  Colonel  so  consider  this  of  the  utmost  im 
portance,  for  in  this  must  the  oft-mooted  question 
of  a  universal  deluge  be  forever  set  at  rest,  inas 
much  as  here  was  the  actual,  conclusive  proof. 

Continuing  investigation  we  arrive  at  the  fourth 
casket,  sealed,  as  were  the  others,  whereon  was  in- 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT.     145 

scribed,  "Abiram,  the  builder  of  a  tower,  expected 
to  furnish  an  easy  route  to  Paradise." 

The  robes  in  which  the  bodies  were  originally 
enshrouded  when  laid  away,  soon  became  so  decom 
posed  by  exposure  to  the  air,  as  to  rise  in  an  im 
palpable  powder  that  was  fearfully  stifling;  how 
ever,  this  soon  passed  away  leaving  nothing  behind. 

The  fifth,  and  last  remaining  casket,  was  now 
taken  in  hand,  and  while  of  less  weight,  was  in  no 
respect  of  less  account,  for  on  deciphering  the 
characters  it  bore,  the  astonishment  was  not  one 
whit  abated,  for  here  was  a  coffin  lid  whereon  was 
inscribed  the  one  word,  "Tempter,"  followed  by  the 
warning,  "by  whose  machinations,  misrepresenta 
tions,  falsehoods  and  treachery  the  first  man  and 
woman  fell  from  their  high  estate,  being  expelled 
from  the  celestial  garden."  Nothing  was  here  dis 
closed  save  the  vertabrae,  skin  and  rear  appendage, 
otherwise  the  warning  rattles,  while  on  the  under 
side  of  the  outer  lid  cut  in  the  granite-like  surface 
were  the  significant  words,  "Beware  the  Serpent." 


146     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 


CHAPTER  XXVIII. 

FORTHCOMING  EVENTS. 

OUR  wearisome,  though  wondrously  interesting 
task  was  finished, — for  there  were  no  more  caskets 
to  be  unsealed — hence,  nothing  farther  required  to 
complete  a  conquest,  whereto  the  grave  has  given 
up  its  illustrious,  and  as  previously  remarked,  long- 
forgotten  dead.  The  day  was  nearly  spent,  though 
to  this  I  would  not  have  given  a  thought,  had  the 
Colonel's  drooping  spirits  not  caused  him,  as  I 
feared,  to  relapse  into  his  former  disconsolate 
mood. 

Wearily  raising  his  head  he  glances  enquiringly 
about,  carefully  replaces  the  lids  of  the  several 
caskets,  allowing  his  glance  to  fall  toward  each,  as 
I  imagined,  in  the  nature  of  a  farewell,  then,  like 
the  desert  Arab,  quietly  folded  his  arms,  silently  re 
pairing  to  his  quarters. 

Were  my  imaginings  to  be  verified  ?  Alas ! 
'twas  thus  I  feared.  I  saw  no  more  of  the  Colonel 
until  we  took  our  accustomed  seats  at  the  table,  he 
partaking  of  the  meal  in  a  seemingly  pre-occupied 
manner  and  silently,  save  a  single  passing  remark, 
"Josiah,  it  is  my  impression  that  we  had  better  set 
about  the  translation  of  the  tablets  as  soon  as  pos 
sible  after  breakfast." 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     147 

Readily  assenting,  we  soon  after  retired  to  rest, 
that  is  to  say  on  my  part,  but  on  that  of  the  Colo 
nel  it  was  something  different,  for  instead  of  sleep 
he  seemed  in  a  state  of  morbid  restlessness;  how 
ever,  the  night  passed  away  without  special  incident, 
the  early  morning  finding  us  seated  at  the  break 
fast  table,  when  a  half  hour  later  we  adjourned  to 
the  cabin  in  readiness  for  translating  the  unknown 
tongue, — "The  Old  Mountain  Hermit"  having  at 
the  time  of  the  memorable  visit  placed  the  Colonel 
in  possession  of  the  key  to  those  ancient  hiero 
glyphics,  therefore,  no  great  difficulty  was  antici 
pated  as  to  the  result. 

Nearly  sixty  days  was  consumed  in  the  work, 
meantime  the  tablets  thoroughly  deciphered  and 
transcribed  in  manuscript  form,  the  Colonel  de 
lighted  at  the  thoroughness  with  which  it  had  been 
done,  while  my  satisfaction  was  none  the  less  pro 
nounced,  for  my  pen  had  been  in  constant  activity 
the  whole  time. 

One  afternoon  as  I  was  thus  employed  the  Colo 
nel,  who  during  the  whole  of  the  afternoon  had 
scarcely  spoken,  rather  sitting  complacently  by, 
came  to  my  side,  saying,  "Josiah,  good  friend,  and 
true,  as  I  believe  you  to  be,  I  want  you  to  under 
stand  that  it  is  my  earnest  desire  that  you  take  en 
tire  charge  of  the  manuscript,  for  my  mind  seems 
burdened  with  strange,  not  to  say,  fearful  forebod 
ings.  Now,  to  you  this  may  seem  foolish.  But  when 
I  tell  you  that  I  get  little  rest  by  day,  and  no  sleep 
at  night,  my  mind  filled  with  visions  of  forthcom 
ing  ill,  what,  let  me  ask,  can  I  do  ?  What  imagine 
other  than  that  I  stand  on  the  threshold  of  some 
fearful  calamity  ?  Therefore,  Josiah,  I  beseech,  im- 


148     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT. 

plore  thee,  guard  these  ancient  treasures,  this  his 
tory  of  events  hitherto  hidden  in  the  womb  of  the 
past,  for  once  lost,  they  can  never,  no  never,  be  re 
placed,  so  I  repeat,  guard  them  as  your  life.  Aye, 
protect  them  at  all  hazards,  for  once  destroyed  a 
loss  would  accrue  whereby  a  thousand  lives  would 
hardly  suffice  in  payment." 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     149 


CHAPTER  XXIX. 

DOOMED. 

"A  COUPLE  of  weeks  more  of  this  sort  of  weather 
will  see  us  steaming  up  the  Thames." 

Thus  spoke  the  captain,  as  pacing  the  upper 
deck,  a  clear  sky  above  and  smooth  sea  beneath,  we 
were  holding  cheerful  converse,  the  subject  largely 
devoted  to  our  home  coming. 

The  weather  for  several  days  past  had  been  un 
usually  fine,  and  the  ship's  progress  correspondingly 
rapid.  The  captain's  cheery  predictions,  as  above 
noted,  giving  assurance  of  safe  return. 

Referring  to  the  manuscript,  of  which  little  had 
been  said  since  the  reading, — the  vast  array  of  facts 
therein  presented,  as  yet  scarcely  digested, — the 
learned  scientists  habitually  brooding  over  a  long 
forgotten  past,  were  to  say  the  least,  in  a  singular 
state  of  unrest. 

The  voluminous  manuscript,  burdened  with  a 
wealth  of  knowledge  obtainable  from  no  other 
source,  would,  as  I  trusted,  soon  be  published,  then, 
thought  I,  will  the  Colonel's  fame  be  established, 
while  I  might  possibly,  in  my  own  personality, 
come  in  for  a  share  of  praise,  no  matter  how  small — 
for  I  had  so  indefatigably  adhered  to  his  fortunes, 
accompanying  him  through  fair  weather  and  foul, 
regardless  of  the  outcome,  that  surely,  thought  I, 


150     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

the  glory,  if  any,  must  be  partly  mine.  But 
alas !  'twas  not  so  to  be ;  for  while  it  was  true  the 
consummation  of  our  most  ardent  desires  was,  as 
far  as  we  could  judge,  close  at  hand,  yet  never, 
no  never,  to  be  realized. 

On  this  the  last  evening  the  Colonel  and  myself 
betook  ourselves  to  the  deck,  where  we  remained 
•until  a  late  hour.  The  principal  topic  of  conversa 
tion  the  probable  effect  on  the  public  mind  of  forth 
coming  disclosures,  the  Colonel  taking  the  ground 
that  while  it  was  but  natural  to  expect  skeptics  to 
abound,  proof  would  not  be  found  wanting  in 
furtherance  of  the  claims  put  forth,  nor  would 
authenticity  of  the  ancient  records  be  questioned. 

"Proof,"'  the  Colonel  shouts,  "yea,  proof  that 
cannot  be  gainsaid,  nor  set  aside.  Yet,"' — with  a 
long-drawn  sigh, — "I  much  misdoubt,  if  I  be  there 
.to  see.  Josiah,"  he  continues,  "whatsoever  may 
chance  to  befall,  whatever  fate  betide,  preserve  the 
manuscript.  Aye !  preserve  it  as  the  apple  of  your 
eye,  for  between  those  covers  are  pages  of  untold 
"wealth,  treasures  above  price." 

"Priceless  treasures  in  very  truth,"  I  reply. 
"And  so  long  as  life  holds  out,  so  long  to  the 
manuscript  will  I  cling,  and  only  when  the  sea 
doth  claim  me  for  its  own  will  I  relinquish  hold." 

"Consider  that  speech  the  most  remarkable  event 
of  your  life,"  smilingly  rejoins  the  Colonel,  then 
in  saddened  tones:  "In  you,  Josiah,  do  I  both 
trust  and  hope;  let  me  not  have  it  to  say,  I've 
been  disappointed." 

"So  say  I,  my  friend,  in  so  far  as  regards  the 
manuscript,  but  not  so  in  regard  to  your  fore 
bodings  of  evil." 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEKMIT.     151 

"Have  it  as  you  will,"  he  returns,  "I  can  but 
fulfil  whatsoever  destiny  awaits  me." 

It  was  now  getting  along  toward  midnight,  so 
bidding  the  Colonel  "adieu,"  we  separate,  retiring  to 
our  state  rooms,  thence  to  bed,  and  so  far  as  I  was 
concerned,  presumably  to  sleep. 

As  is  well  known,  I  had  given  the  Colonel  my 
sacred  promise  that  I  would  to  the  utmost  in  my 
power  conform  to  his  wishes  in  regard  to  the 
manuscript's  preservation,  yet,  how  little  did  I  real 
ize  what  that  promise  meant,  for  I  could  not  have 
anticipated  the  straits  into  which  I  would  be  forced 
in  order  to  carry  out  the  promise.  Nay,  nor  could 
one, — save  as  gifted  with  the  spirit  of  prophecy- 
forestall  the  thrilling  events  in  connection  with  the 
awful  scenes  soon  to  be  encountered. 

Shortly  before  leaving  the  steamer's  deck  I  had 
noticed  a  portentous  cloud  off  the  starboard  bow, 
but  not  desiring  in  any  manner  to  contribute  to  the 
Colonel's  state  of  unrest,  I  had  refrained  from  call 
ing  his  attention  thereto.  Indeed  I  had  given  little 
thought  to  it  myself,  nevertheless  deeming  it  a 
matter  of  prudence  to  be  prepared  for  whatsoever 
emergency  might  chance  to  arise,  I  turned  in  with 
out  removing  my  clothing  and  well  it  was  that  I  did 
so. 

Again  a  notable  circumstance  contributing  to  a 
sense  of  security  lay  in  the  fact  that  shortly  before 
setting  out  on  the  voyage  I  had,  by  the  advice  of 
friends,  purchased  a  newly  invented  rubber  attach 
ment,  in  the  words  of  the  patentee :  "The  only  life 
saving  apparatus  of  the  kind  extant,  and  the  only 
one  that  in  an  emergency  can  be  depended  upon, 
because  it  encloses  the  wearer  in  a  perfectly  sealed 


152     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

envelope  impervious  to  the  action  of  water,  and 
which,  fully  inflated  will  bear  the  occupant  up 
against  the  foulest  kind  of  weather,  and  the  most 
tempestuous  seas." 

And  now  to  make  assurance  doubly  sure,  I  draw 
the  sack  over  my  outer  garments,  placing  my  valu 
ables  inside  of  an  inner  pocket,  though  when  I  say 
valuables,  I  simply  mean  the  aforesaid  manuscript, 
of  more  real  worth  than  a  cargo  of  gold  and  silver 
watches,  in  my  own  case  represented  by  a  very 
common  one  of  the  latter  material;  so  that  taking 
it  all  in  all,  I  was  to  all  appearance  well  prepared 
for  storm,  tempest,  and  even  shipwreck — the  lat 
ter  calamity  giving  me  little  concern — jet,  must 
needs  admit  that  the  Colonel's  excessive  fears  had 
a  tendency  toward  similar  feelings  within  myself. 

Notwithstanding  these  precautionary  measures 
court  the  drowsy  god  as  I  would,  I  could  get  no 
sleep,  my  mind  constantly  reverting  to  the  stone  en 
closed  treasures  reposing  on  deck  of  a  vessel, 
whereof  none  other  in  the  world's  history  had  been 
so  honored. 

Thus  hovering  on  the  borders  of  dreamland,  or 
rather  between  sleep  and  wakefulness,  my  mind  en 
chained  as  by  ligaments  of  steel,  I  was  all  at  once 
aroused  to  full  consciousness,  and  perhaps  a  sense 
of  the  situation,  by  a  vivid  flash,  quickly  succeeded 
by  a  heavy  roll  of  thunder,  thus  giving  fair  warn 
ing  of  what  was  to  be  expected,  flash  after  flash  in 
quick  succession,  each  followed  by  terrific  roar, 
until  it  seemed  as  if  the  whole  heavens  had  entered 
into  conspiracy  looking  to  our  swift  destruction. 

"Every  man  to  his  post,"  came  in  stentorian 
tones,  the  heavy  tread  of  many  feet  overhead,  evi- 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     153 

dencing  the  quick  obeying  of  the  order,  each,  beat 
of  piston  rod  sending  a  quiver  throughout  the 
staunch  ship.  The  Colonel,  excessively  agitated, 
immediately  appearing  on  deck,  his  face  blanched  to 
death-like  hue,  each  lineament  settled  in  stern  re 
solve  to  do,  and  if  needs  must,  die.  The  one  and 
only  sentence  escaping  his  lips,  "Josiah,  my  time 
has  come.  Eemember  the  promise/' 

Stationed  at  the  Colonel's  side,  the  rubber  sack 
fully  inflated,  enquiring  glances,  broad  smiles,  ac 
companied  by  jocose  sallies,  consequent  on  my  comi 
cal  appearance  directed  toward  me.  It  seemed  an 
imperative  duty  that  I  should  offer  my  life  saving 
apparatus,  begging  the  Colonel  to  accept  it,  fol 
lowed  by  the  assurance  that  my  poor  life  was  worth 
less  in  comparison  to  his  own.  But,  alas !  The 
words  are  scarcely  out  of  my  mouth  when  with  a 
shriek  and  a  roar,  the  winds  in  all  their  fury  burst 
upon  the  ship,  the  waves  with  sledgehammer  blows 
beat  against  her  sides.  The  bulwarks  are  crushed, 
the  masts  fall,  the  sails  torn  in  shreds,  float  away  on 
the  gale,  the  sea  in  all  directions  is  upheaved. 
Lightning  flash,  and  the  boom  of  heaven's  artillery, 
incessant,  the  doomed  ship  plunges  recklessly  on 
ward,  her  bow  engulfed,  then  the  stern,  while  the 
man  at  the  helm  is  nearly  overcome  by  the  remorse 
less  waves. 


154     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 


CHAPTER  XXX. 

THE    SHIPWRECK. 

THE  once  while  proud  steamer,  "City  of  Japan," 
lies  on  the  bosom  of  the  sea,  a  plunging,  sinking, 
hopeless  wreck,  her  bow  shattered,  bulwarks 
crushed,  engine  rooms  flooded,  cabins  deluged,  it  is 
but  a  question  of  time,  and  that  but  little  prolonged, 
when  she  must  inevitably  succumb,  going  down  be 
neath  the  weight  of  waters  within  the  depths  of 
which  she  is  even  now  on  the  verge  of  being  en 
gulfed. 

"For  God's  sake  lower  the  boats,"  in  ringing 
tones  from  the  still  undismayed  captain.  Again, 
"lower  the  boats,  else  we  perish."  Too  late,  for  ere 
it  is  possible  to  carry  out  the  order  the  steamer 
reels,  swaying  back  and  forth,  seemingly  in  hesitat 
ing  mood — before  taking  the  final  leap.  Hur 
riedly  I  climb  the  broken  rail,  thence  with  a 
bold  leap  find  myself  floating  on  the  bosom  of  the 
boiling  sea,  yet  'twas  only  by  the  most  strenuous 
effort  I  was  enabled  to  preserve  my  equilibrium  so 
as  not  to  be  drawn  in  the  vortex  of  the  sinking 
ship.  However,  with  a  goodly  amount  of  presence 
of  mind,  I  moved  a  considerable  distance  away  from 
the  sinking  vessel,  then  rested,  floating, — I  cannot 
in  truth  venture  to  say  at  ease, — on  the  contrary, 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     155 

was  tossed  about  like  a  cork  on  the  bosom  of  the 
great  deep,  soon  thereafter  beholding  a  spectacle  it 
would  tax  my  patience  to  describe. 

The  ship's  company  collected  near  to  the  bow 
of  the  ship,  Colonel  Ashburton,  surgeon  and  sa 
vants,  huddled  about  the  stump  of  the  fallen  mast, 
hardly  able  to  maintain  an  upright  position,  for  the 
ship  was  heeled  over  until  her  bulwarks  nearly 
touched  the  water,  therefore  it  was  very  like  a  roof 
at  an  angle  of  45  degrees,  and  nothing  wherewith 
to  cling. 

Thus  floating,  my  every  sense  on  the  alert,  at  the 
same  time  well  knowing  eternity  was  not  far  away, 
my  fellow  voyagers  the  victims,  when  all  of  a  sud 
den  mid  shrieks,  cries,  and  from  some,  curses,  the 
steamer  gives  another  lurch,  then  sinks  from  sight, 
leaving  nothing  visible  other  than  a  wide  waste  of 
seething  waters. 

And  now,  good  friends,  think  not  from  what  fol 
lows  that  my  brain  was  in  an  addled  state,  nor  that 
I  am  indulging  in  fictitious  tales ;  on  the  contrary, 
my  mind  was  never  clearer,  while  the  tale  is  sus 
ceptible  of  proof.  Wherefore,  I  do  most  solemnly 
avow  that  right  before  my  very  eyes  a  long,  bony 
finger  extended,  and  pointing  in  direction  of  the 
late  disaster,  form  floating,  as  on  another  occasion, 
in  mid-air,  was  "The  Old  Hermit  of  the  Moun 
tain." 

For  the  moment  forgetting  my  constrained  posi 
tion,  I  thought  to  flee,  or  in  some  manner  rid  my 
self  of  the  uncanny  apparition,  then  bethinking  my 
self  that  I  was  wholly  at  the  mercy  of  whomsoever 
might  choose  to  take  advantage  of  my  helplessness 
I  concluded  to  remain  at  ease,  and  await  the  issue, 


156     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN"  HERMIT. 

which,  however,  was  not  long  in  coming,  for  sud 
denly  a  voice  in  accents  thoroughly  familiar  spoke  : 
"Behold,  0  sacrilegious  mortal,  what  wicked  hands 
hath  wrought,  unto  what  selfish  schemes  hath  led  ? 
Moreover,  while  in  doubting  wonderment  as  to  why 
so  many  of  thy  betters  have  perished,  fail  not  in 
remembrance,  'That  pride  ever  goeth  before  a  fall/ 
Vastly  uplifted  was  thy  friend  Ashburton,  undue 
ambition  a  notable  characteristic  of  his  nature, 
greed  of  gain,  a  pecularity  for  which  he  was  not 
responsible,  though,  as  to  this  latter,  I  am  not  so 
well  assured,  yet,  this  I  do  know,  and  so  dost  thou, 
that  in  disobeying  my  injunctions  for  the  purpose 
of  self-aggrandisement,  and  in  every  possible  way 
striving  to  set  aside  my  just  demands,  he  didst  thus 
defy  a  power  of  which  he  has  little  knowledge. 

"Go  to,  then,  0  scribe.  Yea,  depart  whithersoever 
thou  wilt,  and  should  the  uttermost  bounds  of  the 
earth,  cognizant  of  thy  approach,  challenge  thy 
mission,  and  its  special  design,  no  harm  shall  at  any 
time  come  to  thee,  only  so  thou  spread  the  tale 
abroad,  publishing  it  far  and  wide,  'that  for  every 
disobedient  act  a  penalty  is  adjudged,'  in  this  thou 
wilt  by  so  much  be  the  gainer. 

"See,  0  scribe,  to  what  an  inglorious  end  thy 
friend  the  Colonel  hath  come.  Forget  not,  then, 
to  tell  the  story  as  told  thee  by  'The  Old  Mountain 
Hermit/ 

"Ha !  ha !  the  fools,"  he  continues,  his  voice 
soothly  modulated  until  at  the  last  the  tones  are 
hissing,  then  in  exultant  mood,  "Let  my  voice  be 
heard,  earth's  remotest  bounds  listening  thereto  of 
prophecy  fulfilled,"  when  suddenly  there  appears 
at  his  side  and  all  about  the  shadowy  forms  of  those 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     157 

so  lately  gone  to  their  doom,  the  deep  blue  sea 
their  winding  sheet. 

To  the  right  was  the  form  of  Orimentes,  the 
first  created,  still  farther  to  the  right  I  readily 
distinguished  the  shadowy  form  of  Orimentides, 
the  first  woman.  While  to  the  left  was  Aristides, 
"the  famous  Ark  builder,"  Abiram,  the  projector 
of  the  great  tower,  also  glistening  under  the  bright 
canopy  of  heaven  were  to  be  seen  the  undulating 
figure,  and  shimmering  folds  of  the  original  temp 
ter,  "the  Serpent." 

And  now,  all  is  stilled,  the  voice  of  the  "Old 
Mountain  Hermit"  heard  no  more,  the  crash  of 
the  onrushing  billows  hushed,  nothing  to  be  seen 
other  than  the  blue  sea  around  me,  nothing  above 
save  the  starry  heavens,  from  out  which  peeps  the 
early  morning  star. 

The  shadowy  forms  meanwhile  have  disappeared 
in  their  wake,  as  I  conjectured,  though  this  might 
have  been  the  result  of  an  overwrought  imagination, 
a  sinuous  train  of  sulphurous  vapor. 

Turning  in  the  direction  where  my  ill-fated  com 
panions  had  so  lately  gone  to  their  doom,  I  was 
startled  beyond  measure,  and  no  less  gratified,  for 
at  a  little  distance  away  I  saw  an  object  that 
seemed  to  have  a  familiar  appearance,  which,  on 
closer  inspection,  I  found  to  be  one  of  the  "Japan's" 
life  boats. 

For  the  moment  failing  to  remember  the  unique 
situation  in  which  I  was  placed,  in  the  exuberance 
of  my  joy,  I  shout  in  tones  both  vigorous  and  loud, 
"Boat  ahoy !"  but  no  answering  hail.  Again  in 
louder,  more  peremptory  tones  I  cry,  "Boat  ahoy !" 
Still  no  answer,  which,  upon  reflection  I  well  knew 


158     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

could  not  be,  for  the  diminutive  craft  is  without 
skipper,  crew  or  passengers.  "What  could  I  ex 
pect?  So  gathering  my  wits  together,  and  as 
many  of  my  nearly  exhausted  energies  as  possible, 
I  put  off  for  the  craft  as  rapidly  as  my  poor  means 
of  navigation  would  permit. 

A  half-hour  of  vigorous  paddling  enabled  me  to 
draw  near,  when  putting  forth  all  my  remaining 
strength  I  soon  came  alongside,  thence  to  the  stern, 
but  what  do  I  see?  Maybe  a  piece  of  tarred  rope, 
gunny  sack,  or  some  other  equally  undesirable 
article,  as  one  might  naturally  suppose.  Not  so; 
however,  on  the  contrary,  I  discern  an  air-tight 
compartment,  within  which  was  a  bag  of  sea  bis 
cuit,  a  can  of  preserved  meat,  supposed  at  the  time 
beef,  proving  later  a  fallacy,  though  horse  or  other 
detestable  meat  would  have  proved  no  doubt  palat 
able.  Yet  what  gave  me  more  satisfaction  than  all 
else,  was  a  jug  of  fresh  water. 

"Ha!  What  is  this?"  I  exclaim  as  seizing  a 
flask  whereon  was  inscribed  the  cabalistic  words, 
"Jamaica  rum." 

"Gloria  in  excelsis,"  was  what  I  was  on  the  point 
of  saying,  but  instead  quote  that  familiar  hymn, 
"Praise  God  from  whom  all  blessings  flow,"  and  I 
was  wondrously  comforted,  notably  after  a  pull  at 
the  flask. 

Now  with  tooth  and  nail  I  attack  meat  and  bis 
cuit,  feeling  thereby  like  a  new  man, — actions  don't 
count, — peradventure  like  unto  Orimentes,  when  the 
eyes  of  that  remarkable  man  were  first  opened  to 
the  felicities  of  paradisaical  life,  anyhow  in  my  own 
case  Paradise  was  but  little  way  removed. 

Carefully  pushing  my  way  to  the  center  of  the 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     159 

boat  I  climbed  the  thwarts,  though  with  a  good 
deal  of  difficulty,  being  so  encumbered  with  the  in 
flated  sack,  then  dropped  to  the  bottom,  completely 
worn  out  from  the  long,  unintermittent  struggle 
with  nature's  elements,  combined  with  loss  of  sleep 
and  mental  torture. 

'Twas  thus  I  lay,  now  and  again  partially 
aroused  to  stern  contemplation  of  my  perilous  situ 
ation,  yet  scarcely  conscious  of  anything  save  the 
gently  lapping  waves  as  they  beat  against  the  sides 
of  the  frail  boat,  else  shrill  cry  of  some  swift  winged 
bird  of  prey  soaring  overhead,  eye  intent  on  the 
motionless  form  underneath,  choice  morsel  no 
doubt  offered  in  expiation  of  the  fearful  deeds  en 
acted  by  the  gods  during  the  silent  watches  of  the 
past  night. 

The  sun  is  momently  rising  higher  in  the  heavens 
until  the  zenith  is  reached,  still  no  call  to  dinner. 
Whereon,  in  my  thoughtlessness  I  shout,  "Am  I  to 
be  thus  left  and  no  summons  to  the  noonday  meal  ? 
Surely,  such  is  not  the  usual  way  of  treating  pas 
sengers  on  board  ship  ?  Why,  then,  should  I  be  left 
to  go  hungry  while  the  others  are  well  attended  to  ?" 
Thoughts  suggested  before  sufficiently  awakened  to 
realize  the  situation;  however,  bethinking  myself 
that  I  am  not  on  shipboard  with  friends,  compan 
ions  and  passengers  about  me,  but  lone  survivor  of 
a  deadly  shipwreck,  am  about  to  resign  myself  to 
the  inevitable  by  again  falling  asleep,  when  I  am 
abruptly  recalled  to  a  sense  of  my  perilous  condi 
tion  and  full  state  of  wakefulness  by  the  well  known 
hail,  "Ship,  ahoy!  What  craft  is  that?" 

Springing  to  an  upright  position  I  turn  in  direc 
tion  of  the  hail,  when  I  am  almost  bereft  of  my 


160     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEBMIT. 

senses,  and  quite  overcome  with,  joy,  for  in  plain 
sight,  and  not  very  far  distant,  I  perceive  a  large 
ship  in  the  act  of  heaving  to,  her  deck  filled  with 
an  apparently  anxious,  enquiring  group  of  sailors. 
Am  I  awake  or  dreaming?  The  first  thought 
that  came  to  me.  The  second,  "Is  yon  craft  a 
reality  or  the  result  of  an  overwrought  imagina 
tion  ?"  I  rub  my  eyes  in  effort  to  arouse  my  drowsy 
faculties,  then  gaze  long  lingeringly,  and  above  all, 
anxiously,  and  this  is  what  my  gaze  rests  upon:  a 
frigate  apparently  of  the  first  class,  yards  well 
braced,  her  decks  crowded  with  seamen  and  ma 
rines,  officers  in  undress  uniform,  while  from  the 
mast-head  again  waving  in  the  breeze,  is  the  em 
blem  of  my  native  land,  "the  Union  Jack." 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     161 


CHAPTER  XXXI. 

RESCUED. 

KINDLY  hands  arc  extended,  questioning  looks 
given  from  the  generous  hearted  sailors,  who  vie 
in  endeavor  to  make  my  coming  welcome.  But 
it  is  not  long  ere  the  cry  goes  up,  "Whence  cometh 
thou  and  whither  bound  ?" 

To  the  first  I  answer,  "The  steamer,  'City  of 
Japan/  now  fast  anchored  at  the  bottom  of  the 
sea." 

To  the  second,  "Bound  for  the  shores  of  old 
England." 

"Nay,  nay,"  says  one.  "I  should  say,  judging 
from  your  queer  appearance,  you  were  bound  to 
consort  with  the  fishes,"  and  little  wonder,  for  the 
rubber  sack  was  like  an  inflated  bladder,  swelling 
me  out,  until  a  genuine  porpoise  was  a  picture  in 
comparison  to  my  ugly  appearance;  nevertheless,  I 
might  very  easily  have  been  taken  for  that  sort  of 
a  marine  animal. 

Ordering  the  frigate  to  resume  her  course  the 
captain  bidding  me  follow,  retires  to  the  cabin,  and 
in  kindly  manner  suggests  that  I  shake  myself  out 
from  the  life  saving  sack,  to  which  advice  I  the 
more  readily  comply,  for  to  tell  the  truth  I  was 
nearly  perishing  from  the  burthen;  however,  in 


162     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN"  HEKMIT. 

removing  it  I  was  careful  to  handle  it  gently,  for 
it  had  stood  me  a  true  friend  in  need.  Upon  its 
removal  my  underclothing  was  found  quite  dry, 
the  manuscript  in  excellent  state  of  preservation, 
again  proving  conclusively  the  benefits  derived  from 
wearing  the  rubber  attachment. 

Affairs  on  shipboard  satisfactorily  adjusted.  It 
was  my  settled  purpose  not  to  divulge  the  contents 
of  the  manuscript,  as  this  would  naturally  tend  to 
forestall  publication. 

Enquiry  elicited  the  fact  that  the  vessel  so  op 
portunely  appearing  in  my  behalf  was  none  other 
than  Her  Majesty's  Frigate,  "The  Andromeda," 
Captain  Jeremy  Lighthouse,  her  prospective  desti 
nation,  Chinese  waters. 

"Prospective  ?"  I  say  the  well  worn  adage,  ''Man 
proposes,  but  a  higher  power  disposes,"  never  find 
ing  more  fitting  application  than  in  the  case  of  "The 
Andromeda." 

Inasmuch  as  the  destiny  of  one  Josiah  Bartholo 
mew  evidently  lay  in  the  same  direction  the  en 
tire  voyage,  for  by  no  possibility  could  I  leave  the 
ship  until  the  end  of  the  cruise,  and  not  desiring 
to  act  the  part  of  a  sponge  on  the  generosity  of  the 
captain,  nor  to  remain  an  idle  spectator  of  the 
stirring  scenes  likely  to  be  encountered,  for  "The 
Andromeda"  was  a  war  vessel  on  a  warlike  expedi 
tion  bent,  I  begged  the  captain  to  give  me  some  sort 
of  employment,  it  mattered  little  in  what  direction, 
therefore,  it  so  chanced  that  I  was  commissioned 
private  secretary,  and  I  might  as  well  add,  scribe 
to  the  whole  ship's  company,  for  of  a  temperament 
to  be  of  service  to  everybody  with  whom  I  am 
brought  in  contact,  I  cheerfully  surrendered  a  con.- 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT.     163 

siderable  part  of  my  time  to  epistolary  correspond 
ence.  The  soft  hearted  tars'  letters  were  freighted 
with  love  messages  to  their  far-away  English  sweet 
hearts. 

In  this  manner  sixty  or  more  days  pass,  favoring 
winds  bearing  us  on  our  way  with  as  much  ease 
and  comfort  as  could  well  be  expected  on  a  voyage 
of  this  nature,  for  it  was  no  holiday  excursion  I 
can  assure  you. 

The  captain,  as  previously  noted,  while  a  gener 
ous,  high-souled  man,  was  at  the  same  time  a  strict 
disciplinarian,  never  a  duty  neglected,  at  all  times 
thoughtful  and  painstaking  in  regard  to  the  welfare 
of  those  entrusted  to  his  charge. 

While  "The  Andromeda"  was  an  exceptionally 
fine  vessel,  she  was  manned  by  an  exceptionally  fine 
crew,  the  men  at  arms  numbering  not  less  than 
two  hundred,  nearly  all  of  whom  had  seen  service 
in  some  part  of  the  world  on  either  land  or  sea, 
therefore,  as  might  be  expected  were  overjoyed  at 
the  prospect  of  throwing  down  the  gauntlet  for  the 
measly  pig-tails  to  pick  up,  providing  they  had  the 
courage — without  thought  of  attending  conse 
quences,  such  at  all  events  was  the  general  expres 
sion  among  the  soldiery. 

On  a  subsequent  morning,  at  the  first  streak  of 
dawn,  the  look-out  cried,  "Sail  ho !" 

"Where  away  ?"  in  ringing  tones. 

"Three  points  to  windward,"  the  answer. 

Hearing  the  hail  and  reply,  Captain  Lighthouse 
sprang  from  his  bed,  drew  on  his  undress  uniform. 
Then,  glass  in  hand,  hurried  on  deck^  pointing  the 
telescope  in  the  direction  indicated  by  the  look 
out. 


164     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

Thus  remaining  for  a  few  moments,  he  suddenly 
cries  out: 

"My  God,  the  blasted  pirates,"  then  ordered  the 
drums  beat  to  quarters,  while  marines,  headed  by 
their  officers,  haste  on  deck,  fully  prepared  for  the 
fray. 

But  what,  it  may  be  asked,  has  "The  Androme 
da's"  commander  seen  to  account  for  the  expletive 
and  call  to  arms? 

In  answer  a  sail,  quickly  followed  by  a  second, 
third,  fourth,  indeed,  a  whole  fleet,  numbering  no 
less  than  a  score  of  junks,  manned,  and,  to  all 
appearance,  heavily  armed. 

Careful  estimate  revealed  the  unwelcome  fact 
that  the  approaching  fleet  numbered  forty  vessels, 
each  manned  by  fifty  well  armed,  and  as  fairly 
well  disciplined  body  of  savage  cut-throats  as  could 
be  found,  search  the  world  over.  But,  as  Captain 
Lighthouse  was  not  a  man  to  be  cowed  by  numbers, 
nor  grow  faint  of  heart  for  lack  of  courage,  the 
battle  would  from  the  very  necessity  of  the  case 
be  of  an  extraordinarily  sanguinary  nature,  for  it 
stood  to  reason  that  "The  Andromeda's"  people 
would  fight  to  the  death,  for  defeat  meant  nothing 
less  anyhow.  These  were  the  influences  that  made 
my  arm  grow  strong,  as  grasping  the  hilt  of  a  sabre 
I  there  and  then  resolved  to  do,  and  if  needs  must, 
die.  For,  why  should  I  not  be  willing  to  lay  down 
a  life  consecrated  to  those  who  had — in  my  extrem 
ity — so  gallantly  come  to  the  rescue  ?  The  predic 
tion  of  one  who  had  so  often  said,  "No  harm  shall 
come  to  thee,  Bartholemew,  for  I  have  need  of  thy 
services,"  contributed  largely  to  a  sense  of  security, 
and  I  must  confess  that  an  inborn  hope  held  pos- 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     165 

session  of  my  faculties,  because  of  his  shadowy  form 
even  now  hovering  overhead,  lending  aid  in  protect 
ing  me  from  the  perils  of  the  deep ;  but  the  enemy's 
fire  was  another  thing,  and  about  which  I  was  not 
so  sure. 

A  dead  calm  prevailing  would  naturally  have  a 
tendency  to  cause  "The  Andromeda's"  sails  to  hang 
inert,  motionless,  so  it  was  an  impossibility  to  work 
the  great  ship — a  condition  of  affairs  that  prompted 
the  irate  captain  to  boil  with  rage  insisting  that 
could  the  frigate's  guns  be  brought  to  bear  he  would 
sink  every  d — d  one  of  the  wretches  inside  a  half 
hour. 

The  enemy's  craft  low  in  the  water,  "The  Androm 
eda"  correspondingly  elevated,  it  became  a  matter 
of  impossibility  to  depress  the  guns  sufficiently  to 
meet  the  emergency,  so  our  only  recourse  lay  in 
striving  to  prevent  them  gaining  foothold  on  our 
decks. 

A  crisis  in  affairs  seeming  on  the  point  of  realiza 
tion,  Captain  Lighthouse  beckoned  me  to  draw 
near,  then,  in  impressive  tones,  spoke : 

"Bartholemew,  canst  pray  ?  If  so,  down  on  your 
knees  and  pray  as  never  before,  beseeching  the 
good  Lord  for  a  blessing  in  shape  of  a  capful  of 
wind,  not  forgetting  to  add,  Tlease,  Lord,  don't 
linger  long  in  its  bestowal,  else  yon  demons  will  in 
about  five  minutes  be  seen  swarming  our  decks/  and 
hark,  you,  Josiah,  unless  the  powers  above  or  be 
neath,  it  doesn't  matter  much  which,  intercede  in 
our  behalf  the  fate  of  'The  Andromeda'  is  inevit 
ably  sealed." 

On  supposition  the  captain's  fears  were  exag 
gerated,  I  attempted  reasoning  with  him,  urging 


166     THE  OLD  MOUXTAIX  HERMIT. 

the  imminence  of  our  peril  was  possibly  un 
founded,  again  the  bare  idea  of  the  commander  of  a 
notable  warship  begging  assistance  of  an  humble 
secretary,  by  way  of  intercession  of  the  higher 
powers,  in  interest  of  a  capful  of  wind,  was,  to 
say  the  least,  ridiculous,  anyhow  too  much  for  my 
risibilities  to  withstand,  so  I  fell  into  an  uncon 
trollable  fit  of  laughter,  the  well-meaning  officer 
joining,  and  with  good  reason,  for  on  the  instant 
the  surface  of  the  water  became  agitated,  the 
drooping  colors  fluttered,  a  slight  puff  of  air  flat 
tened  the  sails. 

Turning  our  eyes  seaward,  a  cloud  wearing  an 
ominous  look  was  observed  rising  in  the  offing. 

"Glory  to  God,  and  praised  be  His  name," 
piously  ejaculated  the  overjoyed  captain.  Then  in 
stentorian  tones,  "Every  man  to  his  post.  Stand 
by  in  readiness  to  hoist  sail." 

'Twas  not  long  before  every  sheet  that  could 
draw  was  spread  to  the  breeze,  when  the  captain 
again  turned  to  me,  a  quizzical  expression  coming 
over  his  face.  "Josiah,  my  boy,  that  little  petition 
of  yours  has  been  answered,  and  that  right  speedily, 
and  as  the  saying  goes,  'It  never  rains,  but  it  pours/ 
so  I  wouldn't  be  surprised  if  we  got  more  wind 
than  was  bargained  for."  Nevertheless  the  peril 
by  which  we  were  threatened,  while  lessened,  was 
simply  prolonged,  a  fact  of  which  we  were  soon  ap 
prised,  for  now  was  heard  the  fall  of  swiftly 
beating  sweeps,  accompanied  by  the  horrid  tom 
toms,  brandishing  spears,  amid  shouts  from  a  thou 
sand  throats,  as  the  barbarian  freighted  crafts 
swung  around  "The  Andromeda's"  quarter,  looking 
for  an  opening  to  board.  Musket  shot  and  revolver 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     167 

crack  sounding  the  death  knell  of  many  now  in 
eager  pursuit  of  their  anticipated  victims,  and  de 
spite  all  that  could  be  done  the  enemy  finally  suc 
ceed  in  gaining  the  deck,  whereon  the  nettings  are 
torn  away,  the  elated  foe  pressing  onward  gain  the 
coveted  vantage,  outnumbering  the  frigate's  people 
ten  to  one. 

In  the  lead  a  gigantic  half  clothed  savage,  in 
whom  his  followers  evidently  have  the  utmost  con 
fidence.  The  enemy  maintain  a  steady  front,  and 
attack  with  boldness  and  courage. 

The  ominous  appearing  cloud  continues  to  rise 
and  spread,  until  the  blue  sky  is  lost  in  the  gloom, 
yet  not  the  most  remote  show  of  wind,  scarcely 
enough  to  make  impression  on  the  drooping  sails. 
Thus  "The  Andromeda"  standing  motionless,  her 
guns  are  thereby  rendered  useless. 

In  this  frightful  emergency  Captain  Lighthouse 
is  entreated  to  shorten  sail,  but  indulging  less  fear 
from  the  storm,  now  rapidly  approaching,  than 
from  the  deadly  weapons  of  the  foe,  remains  ob 
durate,  continuing  to  pile  on  the  canvas  in  en 
deavor  to  run  clear.  Vain  endeavor,  vain  hope, 
for  the  "pig-tails,"  pouring  on  deck,  press  "The 
Andromeda's"  defenders  so  stoutly,  and  by  sheer 
force  of  numbers  compel  them  to  fall  back,  even  to 
demanding  "unconditional  surrender."  But  Cap 
tain  Lighthouse,  brave  soul  that  he  is,  has  no 
thought  of  giving  up  the  contest  without  one  last 
desperate  effort,  so  calling  together  his  officers,  in 
whom  he  has  the  utmost  confidence,  briefly  ad 
dresses  them  in  interest  of  firing  the  magazine. 
Says  he,  "My  brave  comrades,  perilous  situations 
call  for  desperate  measures,  and  as  the  fate  of  'The 


168     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

Andromeda'  is,  to  all  intents  and  purposes,  sealed ; 
moreover,  as  to  myself  I'd  rather  be  blown  sky 
high,  than  fall  into  the  hands  of  these  merciless 
wretches, — what  say  you  to  the  proposed  measure  ?" 
Yet  before  the  desperate  measures  could  be  resorted 
to  a  wondrous  thing  happened,  for  again  looking 
seaward  a  spectacle  was  brought  to  view  that  com 
pelled  the  blood  to  chill,  every  heart  to  cease  beat 
ing. 

"But  what  was  this  strange  spectacle?"  may  be 
asked.  For  answer,  "Towering  mountain  high, 
crest  outlined  against  a  stony  gray  background, 
slowly,  majestically  approached  an  enormous  wave." 

I,  Josiah  Bartholemew,  haste  to  my  quarters, 
don  the  rubber  sack,  in  readiness  for  whatsoever 
emergency  may  arise. 

It  so  chanced  "The  Andromeda"  lay  broadside  to 
the  oncoming  wave,  as  remarked  the  captain,  "If 
sail  cannot  be  made  the  frigate  is  doomed,  and  all 
on  board  lost,"  meanwhile  the  infuriated  combat 
ants,  thinking  of  nothing  but  to  conquer,  continue 
fighting,  the  battle  raging  with  the  utmost  fury, 
the  enemy  maintaining  the  ground  gained  at  the 
outset  with  no  thought  of  falling  back. 

On  suggestion  of  one  of  "The  Andromeda's"  gun 
ners  the  howitzer  amidships  was  loaded  to  the 
muzzle  and  turned  on  the  piratical  gang,  resulting 
in  immense  slaughter,  whereon  hope  began  to  revive 
in  the  breasts  of  the  frigate's  crew,  but  it  was 
doomed  to  be  short  lived,  for  notwithstanding  the 
beggarly  pirates  cowardly  turned  tairand  fled  for 
their  lives,  at  least  such  was  the  inference  drawn 
on  witnessing  their  hasty  withdrawal  from  the 
scene  of  conflict,  the  wave,  doubtless  the  offshoot 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     169 

of  some  one  of  nature's  convulsions,  still  continues 
its  approach,  seeming  to  gain  in  power  and  volume 
as  it  comes  nearer,  now  but  a  few  leagues  distant. 

"The  wave  will  soon  be  upon  us,"  shouts  the  ter 
rified  captain,  "so  its  every  man  for  himself." 

Taking  the  sweeping  hint  I  climb  the  rail  and 
plunge  headlong  into  the  sea.  Then  paddling  a 
short  distance  away,  rest  on  my  oars — so  to  speak — 
conceiving  I  was  far  enough  away  from  the  ship 
to  avoid  being  drawn  down  in  the  vortex  should 
the  vessel  suddenly  sink,  which,  considering  the 
enormous  weight  of  the  heavy  guns,  could  scarcely 
be  avoided  when  engulfed  by  the  towering  wave 
now  close  at  hand. 

Having  removed  a  goodly  distance  from  the 
doomed  ship,  I  rest  at  ease,  lightly  floating  on  the 
surface,  at  the  same  time  questioning  whether  I 
have  acted  the  part  of  an  honorable  man  in  thus 
deserting  my  comrades  in  the  hour  of  peril,  con 
soling  myself,  however,  by  the  thought  that  to  re~ 
main  would  be  simply  to  court  death  without  com 
pensating  results,  for  I  could  do  nothing  to  ward 
off  threatened  danger,  indeed  I  was  as  helpless  as 
a  newly  born  babe. 

Thus  meditating  I  beheld  a  spectacle  that  should 
I  live  a  thousand  years  would  not  be  effaced  from 
my  memory.  Yet  would  to  God  such  might  be  the 
case,  for  sleeping  or  waking  it  is  ever  in  my 
thoughts,  torturing  me  by  the  recollection. 

I  was  just  on  the  point  of  again  turning  when 
the  wave  struck  the  ship,  crushing,  overturning, 
weighing  her  down  so  that  but  a  few  moments  later 
nothing  was  visible  save  a  waste  of  tumultuous,  up 
heaving  billows. 


170     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

The  enemy  convinced  that  deadly  peril  was  at 
hand,  sprang  for  the  junks,  many  in  their  eagerness 
falling  into  the  sea;  no  time  to  pick  them  up,  no 
time  for  hesitancy  or  indecision,  for  unless  the 
oncoming  flood  found  them  a  good  distance  away 
from  its  destructive  path  their  doom  was  also  sealed. 
Too  late,  too  late,  for  ere  a  half  score  beat  of  the 
sweeps,  they  are  caught  in  the  flood's  embrace,  and 
like  their  antagonists  quickly  swallowed  up,  sink 
ing  beneath  the  weight  of  waters. 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     171 


CHAPTER  XXXII. 

STARTLING  DISCLOSURES. 

"ALONE,  again  alone !  no  retrieving  sail  in  sight, 
no  friendly  arm  on  which  to  lean,  no  kindly  hand 
to  succor.  Alas !  What  my  fate  ?"  So  lamenting 
and  thinking  some  of  the  submerged  bodies  might 
rise  to  the  surface,  I  paddle  myself  back  to  the 
starting  point,  but,  alas,  how  changed  the  condi 
tions  ;  but  who  shall  describe  my  emotions,  mingled 
with  a  sense  of  supreme  satisfaction  on  perceiving 
a  little  distance  away  an  object,  which  on  second 
look  I  discovered  to  be  one  of  "The  Andromeda's" 
life  boats. 

Pushing  my  way  along  toward  the  lately  risen 
life  boat,  still  greater  surprise  is  in  waiting,  for 
lying  side  by  side,  I  behold  two  unconscious  forms. 
But  of  whom  ? 

'Tis  but  a  moment  when  I  climb  the  thwarts, 
place  a  hand  over  the  heart  of  the  unconscious  cap 
tain.  Joy,  joy,  his  heart  pulses.  He  is  not  dead. 

I  next  perform  a  like  ceremony  on  the  uncon 
scious  body  of  the  chief  with  an  equally  gratifying 
result, — life  is  not  extinct.  My  next  move  was  to 
raise  the  captain's  head,  followed  by  uncorking 
the  flask  of  brandy,  and  pouring  a  few  drops  down 
his  throat,  the  effect  was  marvellous,  especially 
when  taken  in  connection  with  the  rubbing  of  the 


172     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN"  HERMIT. 

limbs  and  bathing  the  temples,  for  soon  his  bosom 
heaves,  pulse  beats,  a  long  drawn  sigh  escapes  his 
lips,  expectant  no  doubt  in  anticipation  of  another 
draught  of  the  same  generous  liquor. 

I  now  turn  my  attention  to  the  pirate  chief,  not 
that  I  considered  him  worth  the  trouble,  but  sim 
ply  in  the  interest  of  humanity,  for  I  would  a  duty 
perform  each  owes  to  the  other,  be  he  friend  or  foe, 
an  act  be  it  said  that  later  on  I  had  no  cause  to 
regret. 

The  chief,  too,  at  length  regains  consciousness, 
the  aforesaid  bottle  largely  contributing  to  the 
gratifying  result,  the  captain's  jealous  eye  taking 
note  of  my  every  move. 

In  weak,  disjointed,  hesitating  sentences,  pigeon 
English,  the  ruling  vocabulary,  the  fallen  chief 
says,  "Me  tankee  berry  muchee,  indeed.  Ya,  berry 
muchee,  for  sabeing  my  poor  lifee,  an'  meebe  I 
do  de  samee  to  you  sometimee." 

"Never  mind  thanks.  True,  as  you  say,  it  may 
some  time  come  in  your  way  to  do  me  a  good  turn, 
and  if  so,  I  shall  not  hesitate  to  avail  myself  of 
the  offer/' 

"Dat  am  so,  ya,  dat  am  so,"  the  chief  returns, 
a  prediction  verified  to  the  letter,  for  I  was  at  one 
time  reduced  to  straits  but  little  less  than  those 
from  which  I  was  so  lately  extricated,  the  worthy 
chief  acting  the  part  of  a  generous  host,  and  be 
coming  the  very  best  friend — next  to  Captain 
Lighthouse — that  I  ever  had. 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     173 


CHAPTER  XXXIII. 

A   STRANGE    PEOPLE. 

THE  reclaimed  warriors  having  in  good  measure 
regained  their  mental — though  I  could  not  say  as 
much  concerning  their  physical — equilibrium, 
turned  to  with  a  will,  looking  to  putting  the  life 
boat  in  seaworthy  condition.  There  was,  however, 
little  amiss,  the  craft  having  to  all  appearance  suf 
fered  less  than  the  deep  sea  explorers,  so  on  sup 
position  that  some  one  of  the  submerged  bodies 
might  come  to  the  surface,  possibly  one  in  whom  a 
spark  of  life  yet  lingered,  I  proposed  lying  off  and 
on  until  it  wras  positively  known  that  there  was  no 
possibility  of  more  being  saved.  I  was  not  far  away 
in  my  surmises,  for  soon  body  after  body  rose  to 
the  surface,  among  which  were  sailors,  marines  and 
officers,  but  not  one  was  found  living. 

Another  tragedy  was  on  the  eve  of  enactment, 
for  before  investigation  was  fairly  concluded,  atten 
tion  was  called  to  an  object  a  little  distant,  which, 
proved  the  fin  of  a  shark. 

"Xot  one  alone,  but  a  score  of  fins,"  quoth  the 
captain. 

"Look,"  he  continues,  "the  bloodthirsty  mon 
sters.  See  how  they  congregate,  and  still  they 
come." 

The  captain  was  right,  for  look  in  whatever  di- 


174     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

rection  we  might  the  black,  upturned  snouts  and 
wide-extended  jaws  appear,  the  lifeless  remains 
of  our  ill  fated  companions,  the  magnet  drawing 
them  hither.  And  what  a  spectacle !  The  sea  for 
leagues  in  every  direction  dyed  with  the  life  blood 
of  those  by  whose  side  we  had  so  lately  battled  in 
interest  of  rights  delegated  to  every  human  being, 
that  of  self-preservation,  but  now,  alas,  food  for 
these  ravenous  brutes.  "The  gods  have  been  good 
and  exceedingly  generous  in  thus  supplying  the 
needs  of  the  treacherous  devils,"  spoke  the  captain, 
responded  to  by  the  chief,  "Ya,  ya,  me  tinkee  so, 
too,  all  the  samee." 

'Twas  thus  we  remained  for  a  half  hour,  in 
dulging  the  hope  of  rendering  assistance  to  some 
poor  mortal,  but  we  found  waiting  of  no  avail,  the 
objects  toward  which  our  kind  offices  were  directed 
\vere  beyond  human  succor,  or  even  sympathy,  so 
finding  farther  effort  useless  we  turned  away,  head 
ing  in  direction  of  a  group  of  islands,  barely  distin 
guishable  from  the  great  distance — the  rendezvous 
as  we  soon  found  of  the  foe  who  had  so  bravely  and 
persistently  attacked  us  in  the  early  morning. 

On  examination  of  our  effects  an  old  and  par 
tially  worn-out  sail  was  discovered  in  the  locker  of 
the  life  boat,  so  utilizing  an  oar  in  place  of  a  mast, 
sail  was  spread  to  the  breeze,  our  little  craft  bound 
ing  lightly  over  the  white  crested  waves. 

About  half  the  distance  traversed,  and  a  flotilla 
of  canoes  was  observed  putting  off  from  shore, 
heading  in  our  direction,  yet,  upon  arriving  within 
speaking  distance,  what  was  our  surprise  to  find 
them  manned  by  the  gentler  sex,  anyhow,  so  styled. 
So  I  said,  "If  these  be  gentle  blood,  heaven  save  us 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     175 

from  encountering  those  that  are  not  so  gentle !" 
Indeed  a  more  repulsive  set  of  wretches  it  was 
never  my  luck — good  or  ill — to  encounter.  In 
thus  speaking  I,  of  course,  have  reference  to  the 
elderly  females.  The  younger  ones  will  be  noticed 
hereafter. 

On  approaching  the  flotilla  I  perceived  the 
countenances  of  the  females  wearing  a  woebegone 
expression,  indicative  of  sorrow,  consequent — as  I 
conjectured — on  the  fearful  calamities  following 
the  attack  on  "The  Andromeda,"  whereby  the  entire 
male  portion  of  the  island  community  were  swept 
away,  save  the  chief,  who  was  now  not  only  chief, 
but  head  and  front  of  the  whole  people. 

Indulging  a  bit  of  moralizing  I  was  led  to  ques 
tion  whether  the  attributes  of  love  and  hate  were 
not  equally  common  to  all  peoples  and  tongues,  for 
no  matter  how  high  or  how  low  their  station  in  life, 
the  passions  seem  to  hold  even  sway,  and  it  was  the 
same  with  this  people.  Isolated  as  they  were  from 
civilizing  influences  they  none  the  less  mourned 
the  loss  of  loved  ones,  and  'twould  have  moved  the 
stoutest  heart  to  have  witnessed  the  unfeigned  grief 
of  these  poor  degraded  souls,  who  knowing  nothing 
better,  assumed  it  just  and  right  to  take  advantage 
of  another's  weakness,  be  he  friend  or  foe,  and  as  in 
this  instance,  to  plunder,  and  if  possible  destroy 
"The  Andromeda"  together  with  her  people. 

Now,  that  the  tables  were  turned,  their  grief  was 
uncontrollable.  Their  lamentations  the  louder,  for 
prospective  gain  spoiled,  nothing  remained  to  fall 
back  upon,  nothing  left  by  way  of  compen 
sation  for  the  loss  of  all  that  was  clear,  husbands, 
fathers,  sons  and  brothers,  all  now  at  the  bottom  of 


176     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

the  sea,  and  here  was  made  manifest  the  wisdom,. 
one  can  hardly  say  forethought,  in  preserving  the 
life  of  the  chief,  for  had  I  obeyed  the  promptings 
of  my  heart,  thus  leaving  him  to  his  fate,  the  con 
dition  of  the  captain  and  myself  would  have  been 
truly  deplorable,  for  in  their  rage  I  verily  believe 
they  would  have  torn  us  piecemeal,  without  a  single 
grain  of  remorse,  peradventure  supped  of  our  flesh, 
dedicating  our  well  polished  bones  in  peace  offering 
to  the  gods  in  expiation  for  their  fearful  loss,  for 
their  one  thought  seemed  that  some  offence  had  oc 
curred  whereby  their  downfall  was  assured,  hence, 
the  more  willing  to  vent  their  displeasure  on  that 
of  their  enforced  guests,  at  least  from  their  mani 
festations  of  anger,  I  so  judged,  and  it  was  only 
through  much  persuasion,  accentuated  by  threaten 
ing  gestures  from  a  powerful  war  club  wielded  by 
the  redoubtable  chief,  that  we  were  permitted  to 
pursue  our  course  without  farther  demonstrations 
of  this  nature. 

From  the  foregoing  it  will  readily  be  seen  that  our 
reception  on  shore  would  doubtless  not  be  of  the 
most  amicable  kind,  as  it  certainly  was  more  a 
matter  for  conjecture  than  actual  knowledge,  for 
the  power  wielded  by  the  chief  might  be  so  counter 
acted  by  influence  of  his  female  subjects  as  to  cause 
his  impromptu  guests  to  be  laid  on  the  sacrificial 
altar  in  justification  of  their  misdeeds. 

We  proceed,  a  fair  breeze  under  strong  pressure 
of  sail  hurrying  us  onward,  until  we  fairly  outstrip 
our  friends  of  the  flotilla,  reaching  shore  consider 
ably  in  advance. 

Tying  the  boat  to  a  neighboring  tree  we  rest, 
awaiting  their  coming,  not  long  delayed,  for  before- 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT.     177 

aware  of  the  fact  they  fly  past,  the  measured  beat 
of  sweeps  keeping  time  to  a  low  guttural  chant,  re 
ferring  to  the  late  catastrophe  in  the  simple  words : 

"Husbands,  brothers,  lovers  all, 

Gone  to  the  bottom  of  the  deep, 
Shall  we  stand  and  idly  call, 

Or  seek  revenge  before  we  sleep'?" 

"Lines  suggestive,"  as  I  remarked  to  the  cap 
tain,  "of  the  probable  fate  of  one  Captain  Light 
house,  and  his  friend,  Josiah  Bartholemew." 

Whereon  he  likewise  of  poetical  turn,  rejoins : 

"Ah,  Josiah,  the  measly  ruffians 
In  petticoats  though  they  be, 
They'll  have  like  the  d — I  to  fight, 
Ere  to  terms  they  bring  us,  you  see" 

Our  friends  of  the  flotilla  having  landed,  are  now 
to  be  seen  hastening  to  give  their  beloved  chief 
greeting,  therein  exhibiting  intense  emotions  of  de 
light,  their  countenances — ugly  as  they  are — beam 
ing  with  joy  because  he  is  spared,  yet  none  the  lesa 
sorrowing  for  those  endeared  both  by  ties  of  nature, 
and  priestly  sanction,  at  the  same  time  they  caa 
scarcely  realize  the  full  extent  of  a  loss  that  can  in 
one  sense  never  be  repaired,  for  there  are  none  left 
to  take  the  place  of  those  adjudged  to  destruction. 
"Yet,"  as  observed  the  philosophic  captain,  "whom 
do  you  imagine  the  beggars  mourn  for  most,  Josiah, 
their  late  husbands — though  I  don't  believe  a  bloody 
one  of  them  was  ever  really  married — or  the  plunder 
it  was  expected  they  would  receive  on  conquering 


178     THE  OLD  MOUNT AIX  HERMIT. 

'The  Andromeda's'  people?  To  say  nothing1  of  the 
sustenance  in  the  hold  with  which  to  fill  their  hun 
gry  stomachs,  besides  the  prisoners  whom  'twould  so 
delight  their  beastly  souls  to  put  to  the  torture?" 
"Or,  on  the  other  hand,"  I  interpose,  "to  fill  the 
place  of  their  defunct  lords,  for  'pon  my  word, 
captain,  I  honestly  believe  they'd  relish  the  ex 
change." 

"We  shall  see,  my  boy,  yes,  we  shall  see  when  it 
comes  our  turn  to  be  tossed  in  the  matrimonial 
market  to  the  highest  bidder,  for  so  sure  as  you  live 
it  will  come  to  that,  and  in  my  opinion  it  will  be 
about  the  most  severe  torture  they  are  capable  of 
inflicting  on  us  poor  mortals." 

The  island  stronghold,  or  by  whatsoever  name  it 
was  designated,  lay  some  half  mile  back  from  the 
landing  place,  so  the  line  of  march  taken  up,  we 
journey  thitherward,  the  chief  heading  the  comi 
cal  procession,  Captain  Jeremy  Lighthouse  along 
side  his  majesty,  one  Josiah  Bartholomew,  reporter 
and  correspondent,  close  behind,  the  female  con 
tingent  bringing  up  the  rear. 

In  this  manner  we  proceed,  now  through  a  piece 
of  wood  or  interval  of  grassy  plain  interspersed 
with  patches  of  tropical  verdure,  until  at  length  the 
village  rises  to  view. 

Entering  through  a  broken  down  gateway,  set  in 
a  decayed  brushwood  fence,  the  entire  populace, 
wherein  are  comprised  a  number  of  maidens,  come 
forth,  all  exhibiting  signs  of  grief,  for  the  sad 
news  of  the  morning's  mishap  has  gone  ahead,  thus 
apprising  those  left  behind  that  the  male  portion  of 
the  community  have  at  one  fell  swoop  been  lost  to 
them  forever. 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     179 

As  the  captain  and  myself  were  the  only  pale-* 
faces  the  majority  of  this  people  had  ever  beheld, 
their  curiosity  was  unbounded,  yet,  as  far  as  we 
were  individually  concerned,  there  was  scarcely 
any  perceptible  difference  in  complexion  between 
ourselves  and  our  copper-colored  hostesses,  anyhow 
in  so  far  as  I  was  personally  concerned,  for  I  had 
been  so  exposed  to  the  sun's  blistering  rays,  it 
would  have  been  little  matter  of  surprise  were  I 
taken  for  one  of  the  same  lineage. 

The  dilemma  in  which  we  were  placed  was  soon 
overcome,  through  introduction  in  character  of 
"Two  Big  Chiefs"  who,  through  intervention  of 
the  gods  had  escaped  the  fate  of  our  comrades, 
hence  we  were  looked  upon  with  increased  interest, 
the  fair  ones  gathering  about,  in  seeming  desire 
to  know  what  manner  of  men  we  were. 


180     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 


CHAPTER  XXXIV. 
"COMING  EVENTS  CAST  THEIR  SHADOWS  BEFORE." 

IT  was  now  well  on  toward  nightfall,  and  as  our 
energies,  physical  and  mental,  had  been  severely 
taxed,  the  one  compelling  a  famishing  state,  for 
not  a  morsel  of  food  had  passed  our  lips  since  the 
early  morning,  the  chief,  on  being  informed  as 
to  our  condition,  ordered  food  set  before  us,  which, 
I  am  compelled  to  say,  while  not  in  the  latest  style 
of  cookery,  was  nevertheless  appreciated,  and  rel 
ished  accordingly. 

The  meal  finished,  we  were  shown  to  our  quar 
ters,  temporary,  I  hoped,  for  it  was  simply  a  cabin 
of  rough-hewn  logs,  roofed  with  twigs  and  straw, 
and,  while  impervious  to  the  sun's  rays,  was  hardly 
sufficient  to  turn  the  heavy  rains. 

My  first  act  in  the  approaching  drama  was  to 
remove  the  rubber  sack,  finding,  to  my  great  de 
light,  the  manuscript  in  excellent  condition,  like 
wise  a  pair  of  revolvers  it  had  been  my  good  for 
tune  to  secure  before  leaving  the  doomed  "An 
dromeda." 

The  evening  not  far  advanced,  I  proposed  to  the 
captain  a  stroll  taking  in  the  town,  which  agreed  to, 
we  proceeded  to  make  ourselves  as  presentable  as 
possible,  a  bath  considered  the  first  thing  in  order, 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     181 

confined  mainly  to  hands  and  face,  toilet  arrange 
ments  not  of  the  first  quality. 

The  moon  at  the  full  and  a  cloudless  sky,  little 
difficulty  was  experienced  in  making  our  way  along 
the  narrow  streets.  But  wheresoever  we  went  we 
were  beset  by  scores  of  women  bent  on  making  ac 
quaintance  with  "these  strange  beings,"  doubtless 
— as  some  averred — from  another  world,  for  it 
was  a  positive  fact  that  we  were  regarded  in  the 
light  of  some  distant  connection  of  the  gods, 
whence  the  conclusion  that  our  captivity  would 
not  be  overly  severe,  even  if  protracted.  Another 
thing  in  our  favor  arose  from  the  fact  that  the 
younger  class  of  females,  especially  those  ranging 
in  age  from  fourteen  to  twenty  years,  were  re 
markably  fine  looking,  some  even  handsome, 
whereas  those  of  mature  years  were  remarkably 
ugly. 

An  instrument  bearing  strong  resemblance  to 
an  old-fashioned  drum,  but  in  this  instance  con 
structed  from  hollow  logs,  the  ends  covered  with 
a  species  of  rawhide,  a  hideous  contrivance  enough, 
at  least  as  far  as  unearthly  sounds  were  concerned, 
now  came  to  our  ears,  the  deafening  beats  echoing 
and  re-echoing  from  one  end  of  the  town  to  the 
other,  its  purpose  that  of  calling  the  populace 
together  in  council;  the  place  for  assembling,  a 
large  barn-like  structure  near  the  center  of  the 
village. 

Soon  old  and  young  were  observed  hastening 
thitherward,  their  countenances  betraying  an 
anxious  expression,  for  to  them  this  was  an  un 
common  occurrence,  likewise  a  notable  event  in 
their  history. 


182     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

At  length,  all  assembled,  the  chief  rose — a 
roughly-built  platform,  raised  some  three  feet 
from  the  ground,  the  rostrum  from  which  he  was 
to  speak.  This,  in  more  ways  than  one,  remark 
able  personage,  which,  later  on  will  become  more 
apparent,  had,  on  a  certain  occasion  been  captured 
and  taken  to  a  distant  English  settlement,  where 
he  had  been  held  prisoner  for  a  considerable  period 
of  time,  and  when  set  at  liberty,  returned  to  his 
native  country  and  town,  yet,  while  absent,  had 
managed  to  pick  up  a  sort  of  what  is  usually  st}~led 
pigeon  English.  He  had  also  become  quite  pro 
ficient  in  the  manual  of  arms,  so  in  the  late  attack 
on  "The  Andromeda"  he  was  enabled  to  successfully 
cope  with  his  skilled  antagonists. 

Later  on  I  learned  there  were  a  number  of 
islands,  each  occupied  by  its  own  people,  but  sub 
ject  to  one  rule.  The  chief,  whose  life  I  had 
fortunately  been  the  means  of  preserving,  was  the 
acknowledged  head,  to  whom  all  owed  allegiance. 
Yet,  under  present  conditions  it  is  safe  to  say  he 
(the  chief)  would  practically  be  the  one  to  give 
allegiance  to  his  female  subjects.  "For,"  said  the 
captain,  "to  rule  over  men  is  one  thing,  over 
women  another,  as  many  a  one  has  found  to  their 
sorrow/'  In  the  case  of  the  chief  demonstrated 
to  the  loss  of  a  throne. 

This  renowned  Tanawarga,  literally  interpreted, 
signifying  "headlight/''  was  a  man  of  striking  ap 
pearance,  with  an  eye  no  wild  or  captive  eagle 
could  put  in  claim  for  one  more  piercing. 

I  have  spoken  of  this  people  as  of  Mongolian 
origin,  but  on  reflection  and  some  speculation, 
have  finally  decided  the  race  as  Jewish,  possessing, 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT.     183 

as  they  do,  the  same  cast  of  features,  square  jaw, 
high  cheek  bones,  and  complexion  decidedly 
swarthy;  again,  their  laws — social,  religious  and 
political — are  in  many  respects  identical  with 
those  of  the  ancient  Jews,  in  that  they  invoke  the 
good  offices,  not  only  of  the  one,  but  many  gods. 
From  the  facts  as  set  forth  I  am  of  the  firm 
opinion  the  ancestry  of  this  people  are  not  only 
remote,  but  date  away  back  to  the  very  beginning. 

Chief  Tanawarga  now  arising  to  address  his 
people,  prefaces  his  remarks  by  invitation  for  the 
captain  and  I  to  be  seated  on  the  rostrum,  then 
exhorts  his  subjects  to  treat  the  strangers  in  a 
kindly  manner.  "For,"  said  he,  "they  come  to  us 
with  the  reputation  of  brave  men.  Moreover,  from 
personal  experience,  I  know  them  to  be  valiant 
warriors,  testifying  to  the  same  from  having  been 
eye  witness  to  the  one  and  feeling  the  effects  of 
the  other.  The  young  chief  by  my  side,  pale 
though  he  be,  was  surely  a  chosen  instrument 
whereby  the  gods  preserved  the  life  of  your  ruler. 
Therefore,  I  again  say,  treat  him  with  kindness, 
both  he  and  the  gray-beard." 

A  gentle  wave  of  the  hand,  signifying  silence, 
and  every  eye  is  fastened  on  the  beloved  chief,  in 
waiting  to  catch  the  words  that  fall  from  his  lips. 

It  could  hardly  be  expected  that  I  repeat  the 
address  verbatim,  nor  in  the  style  of  language  as 
delivered,  the  unlearned  chief's  disjointed,  broken 
sentences  precluding  a  full  report.  Nevertheless, 
it  is  not  too  much  to  say  that  every  line  was  re 
plete  with  good  sense,  therein  evidencing  careful 
preparation,  and  betokening  the  man  he  would 
have  been  if  the  recipient  of  a  fairly  good  educa- 


IS-i     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

tion.  It  was  his  closing  sentence,  addressed  to  us, 
which  caught  my  wandering  attention  and  filled 
me  with  cold  horror :  "See  to  it  then  ye  take  good 
care  of  these,  our  stranger  guests.  The  one,  be 
cause  he  did  so  contribute  to  the  preservation  of 
the  life  of  your  chief,  I  make  Manager-in-Chief  of 
Island  Affairs;  the  other,  because  he  was  an  hon 
orable  foe,  and  among  his  own  people  a  doughty 
warrior,  I  commission  Lieutenant.  And  now,  that 
ye  may  be  satisfied  with  your  lot,  I  hereby  grant 
permission  for  ye  to  choose  from  among  the  women 
as  many  wives  as  are  to  your  liking." 

Upon  Tanawarga  finishing,  my  heart,  as  on 
many  another  occasion,  nearly  stopped  beating,  for 
on  the  instant — framed  in  an  aureole  of  golden 
locks — appeared  the  well-known  face  of  one  Julia 
Everingham;  a  still,  small  voice  whispers  in  my 
ear:  "Josiah  Bartholemew,  beware  of  the  Ser 
pent/'  sentiments  appealing  not  alone  to  the  imag 
ination,  for  I  was  ere  long  to  be  confronted  by  the 
stern  reality,  not  only  whispered,  but  in  good, 
sound  Anglo-Saxon,  that  while  there  is  no  objec 
tion  to  one  wife,  there  are  a  multitude  of  reasons 
why  there  should  be  no  more  than  one. 

Tanawarga,  finishing  his  discourse,  admonishes 
his  hearers  to  return  quietly  and  circumspectly  to 
their  homes,  then  and  there  to  make  adequate  ar 
rangements  looking  to  the  comfort  of  their  guests, 
so  that  it  was  but  a  little  while  when  all  were  to 
be  seen  wending  their  way  homeward,  many,  like 
Lot's  wife,  looking  backward  in  interest  of  the 
paleface  strangers,  the  minds  of  the  female  sub 
jects  all  at  sea  when  contemplating  the  significant 
words  of  their  notable  chief,  expressive  of  his  re- 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     185 

gard  for  their  welfare  relative  to  the  choice  of 
husbands.  My  own  source  of  anxiety  hinging  on 
the  preservation  of  the  prized  manuscript,  and, 
while  I  might  possibly  be  overworried  in  respect 
to  its  safety,  I  was  not  a  little  annoyed  at  the 
thought  of  its  publication  being  indefinitely  post 
poned. 


186     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT. 


CHAPTER  XXXV. 

TROUBLE   AHEAD. 

I  HAVE  now  a  tale  to  tell  of  so  strange,  unex 
pected  and  startling  a  nature  as  to  tax  the  credulity 
of  the  reader,  peradventure  discredit  the  sanity  of 
the  relator,  but,  before  commencing  the  story  I 
must  state  the  conditions  in  which  I  was  placed, 
giving  rise  to  the  following  problem : 

Given  ten  score  maidens  of  marriageable  age 
and  corresponding  proclivities.  On  the  other  hand 
two  middle-aged  men  and  one  young  scribe.  What 
the  result?  A  problem  it  would  seem  of  easy  so 
lution,  until  one  was  brought  to  the  task,  when 
the  verdict  would  be  the  one  word — "Trouble!" 

It  so  chanced  on  a  certain  morning  that  I 
strolled  quite  a  distance  from  the  village,  my  mind 
fully  engrossed  in  pleasing  contemplation  of  the 
future,  that  same  Julia  Everingham  coming  in  for 
the  largest  share  of  my  thoughts,  the  while  in  won 
derment  as  to  whether,  weary  of  long  waiting,  she 
might  not  have  transferred  her  affections  to  an 
other,  if,  indeed,  she  had  not  taken  it  into  her  head 
to  marry  some  other  good-looking  fellow.  And 
even  were  such  the  case,  I  could  hardly  find  it  in 
my  heart  to  complain.  'Twas  thus  I  meditated, 
when  all  of  a  sudden  my  reverie  is  broken,  a  voice 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     187 

in  sweetly  modulated  accents  chirps,  "Josiah, 
dear  I"  the  voice  followed  by  the  form  and  easily- 
recognized  features  of  Tanawarga's  youngest 
daughter,  Hab-a-sha.  And  oh  how  my  heart  beats 
on  her  approach,  for  she  is  indeed  a  beautiful  girl 
in  that  her  form  is  of  the  most  exquisite  propor 
tions,  head  crowned  with  a  wealth  of  golden  tresses, 
face  of  rare  beauty,  graced  by  a  sweetness  of  ex 
pression  I  have  never  seen  equalled  in  any  human 
being.  Yet,  I  was  forced  to  the  conviction  it  con 
cealed  a  spice  of  deviltry,  possibly  treachery.  Ah, 
the  same  old  Serpent.  But  then  came  the  thought, 
"Am  I  not  subjecting  the  most  winsome  of  maid 
ens  to  unjust,  maybe  harsh,  criticism?"  And  so, 
as  I  afterward  found,  it  was,  for  of  all  human  be 
ings,  she  was  one  who  deserved  praise,  rather  than 
censure. 

A  notable  feature  of  this  maiden  lay  in  the 
singular  fact  that  while  her  sisters'  hair  was  dark 
as  night,  hers  was  of  the  color  of  native  gold;  her 
skin  fair  and  eyes  intensely  blue.  So,  with  all 
these  noteworthy  attributes,  it  is  hardly  a  matter 
of  wonder  she  should  be  sought  after  by  the  young 
men.  Rather,  had  been,  for  there  were  none  now 
to  make  love  to  the  winsome  daughter  of  the  re 
nowned  chieftain.  Thus  as  sole  representative  of 
the  younger  class  of  the  male  element,  it  will  be 
at  once  perceived  that  I  was  in  an  awkward 
dilemma,  or,  as  warned  by  my  late  ghostly  men 
tor,  "in  a  dangerous  predicament." 

Without  the  least  hesitancy  or  maidenly  reserve 
she  advances,  takes  my  hand — more  perhaps  in 
salutation  than  forwardness,  for  this  was  a  com 
mon  custom  among  this  people — bestowing  thereon 


188     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

a  gentle  kiss,  followed  by  the  romance:  "My  pale 
face  friend,  the  whole  morning  have  I  sought  thee, 
sometimes  in  one  place  and  sometimes  in  another, 
but  always  with  the  same  result,  until  I  strayed 
hither,  not  in  the  least  expecting  I  should  find 
you  in  this  secluded  glen/' 

In  explanation  of  the  foregoing  strange  scene 
I  would  take  occasion  to  remark  that  the  maiden 
had,  unperceived,  followed  hard  on  my  steps  during 
my  morning  stroll,  hence  the  denial  as  to  my 
whereabouts  was  simply  subterfuge,  for,  as  I  soon 
after  learned,  she  had  been  an  attentive  listener 
during  the  entire  interview  with  the  "Old  Her 
mit,"  meantime  evolving  from  her  fertile  brain  a 
certain  scheme  whereby  to  bring  me  to  terms,  thus 
captivating  my  affections.  At  least,  'twas  so  un 
derstood  at  the  time,  subsequent  developments  con 
firming  me  in  the  supposition.  Truly  a  note 
worthy  object,  and  one  that  might  have  carried 
had  I  not  been  forewarned.  Nevertheless,  the 
maiden  was,  to  all  intents  and  purposes,  in  active 
preparation  to  open  fire;  bright  eyes  the  weapons, 
honeyed  words  the  ammunition ;  I,  Josiah  Bar- 
tholemew,  the  target  toward  which  the  weapon 
was  aimed. 

As  I  was  about  to  reply  I  was  suddenly  con 
fronted  by  a  vision,  proving,  however,  a  stern 
reality,  for  appearing  on  the  scene  were  one,  two, 
three,  yea,  a  full  score  of  dusky  maidens,  faithful 
subjects  of  Chief  Tanawarga,  who,  unseen,  un 
suspected,  had  crept  through  the  wood  and  were 
now  to  be  seen  in  a  body  with  evident  intent  to 
forestall  my  affections  in  opposition  to  their  equally 
ambitious  golden-haired  sister,  Hab-a-sha. 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     189 

On  appearance  of  the  intruders  the  chief's 
daughter  with  a  cry  of  dismay,  perhaps  jealousy, 
threw  herself  on  my  breast,  twined  her  arms  about 
my  neck,  then  in  whispers  said:  "Josiah,  my 
friend,  have  nothing  to  do  with  those  ignorant 
black-a-moors,  they  are  not  worthy  thy  notice,  in 
deed  they  are  not." 

Hearing  the  uncomplimentary  terms  wherewith 
they  were  recognized,  the  so  alleged  black-a-moors, 
— taking  the  cue,  sprang  forward  with  evident  in 
tent  to  seize  the  offending  maiden,  and  now,  what 
in  the  name  of  my  innate  modesty,  was  I  to  do? 
Capitulate,  throwing  down  my  arms — so  to  speak, 
would  be  to  expose  the  maiden  to  danger,  indeed 
I've  no  doubt  she  would  have  been  torn  piecemeal, 
so  angered  were  her  enemies,  so  gently  disengage- 
ing  her  arms  from  my  neck,  I  lift  up  my  voice  in 
expostulation  and  entreaty,  both  tinctured  with  a 
little  judicious  flattery.  Said  I,  "Most  lovely  and 
winsome  offspring  of  a  great  chief,  why,  let  me 
ask,  so  demean  yourselves  as  to  take  advantage  of 
my  absence  from  your  beautiful  city,  obtruding  in 
this  uncalled  manner  on  my  privacy?  Why, 
friends,  while  it  hath  been  my  exalted  privilege  to 
watch  over  your  interests  with  the  same  assiduity 
that  I  have  over  those  of  the  entire  community,  it 
grieves  me  sorely  to  find  you  in  this  unpleasant 
state  of  mind,  hence,  I  am  forced  to  make  appeal 
to  your  usual  good  judgment,  and  in  all  kindness 
ask  if  it  be  not  unseemly  to  thrust  yourselves  un 
bidden  on  me  in  this  out-of-the-way  place? 

"But  a  few  moons  since  I  came  to  you  an  entire 
stranger,  meantime  I  have  left  no  stone  unturned 
whereby  I  might  do  something  tending  to  your 


190     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT. 

benefit,  moreover,  it  hath  been  a  source  of  un 
wonted  satisfaction  to  note  the  improvement  mani 
fest  in  the  various  walks  of  life,  particularly  the 
acquirement  of  knowledge,  to  which  end  I  am 
pleased  to  note,  you  have  applied  yourselves  with 
vigor,  and  now,  why  attempt  to  undo  that  so 
happily  begun? 

"Cease,  then,  I  implore,  cease  this  uncalled  for 
wrangling,  which,  I  am  positive  you  will  when  I 
give  the  unqualified  assurance  that  to  your  sister — 
Hab-a-sha — I  lay  no  other  claim  than  that  of  pure 
friendship,  for  I  am  positive  it  would  be  considered 
an  act  of  downright  impudence  to  attempt  to  win 
the  affections,  or  even  sue  for  the  hand  of  the 
daughter  of  so  august  a  potentate  as  Chief  Tana- 
warga.  Such,  then,  being  the  case,  how  unwise 
to  attempt  placing  obstructions  in  the  pathway 
leading  to  usefulness,  thus  the  betterment  of  a 
people  in  whose  welfare  I  have  ever  taken  such  a 
deep  interest." 


[CHE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     191 


CHAPTER  XXXVI. 

IN  A  QUANDARY. 

THE  close  of  the  last  chapter  saw  one  Josiah, 
Bartholemew  in  an  unpleasant  predicament,  yet, 
after  his  presumed  quieting  address  to  the  belliger 
ent  faction,  he  was  more  than  astonished  upon  hear 
ing  the  words,  shouted  in  chorus,  "Send  the  tow 
haired  one  along,  and  we'll  do  your  bidding/'  this 
in  response  to  my  having  urged  return  to  their 
homes,  leaving  me  to  pursue  my  way  in  peace. 

It  scarcely  needed  the  prescience  of  a  seer  to  in 
form  me  that  the  golden  haired  daughter  of  Tana- 
warga  was  the  bone  of  contention,  so,  urging  her  to 
return,  along  with  her  less  favored  sisters,  she  again 
threw  herself  on  my  bosom  entreating  me  to  turn 
a  deaf  ear  to  the  alleged  claims  of  her  jealous 
rivals. 

Here  was  a  quandary  indeed,  and  just  what  to  do 
I  knew  not,  for  that  a  storm  was  brewing,  which 
might  eventuate  in  a  tempest  of  no  mean  propor 
tions,  I  greatly  feared;  however,  those  of  the 
maidens  most  worthily  inclined  accepted  the  ad 
vice,  and  were  now  to  be  seen  wending  their  way 
homeward,  while  the  majority  still  insisted  "the 
tow  haired  one"  be  delivered  over  to  their  hands, 
in  which  event  "they  would  soon  bring  the  shame 
less  jade  to  terms."  And  notwithstanding  all  my 


192     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

efforts  directed  to  keeping  the  peace  I  was  soon 
surrounded,  the  thoroughly  aroused  maidens  con 
tinually  shouting,  "Give  to  us  the  tow  haired  one/' 
yet,  'twas  scarcely  a  matter  of  doubt,  that  could 
they  change  places  with  the  much-abused  maiden 
they  would  not  for  a  moment  hesitate,  such  is  the 
perversity  of  human  nature, — i.e.,  complaining 
with  the  same  things  we  would  gladly  do  ourselves 
— and  now  instead  of  angry  words  came  furious 
blows,  and  while  I  fought  hard,  exchanging  blow 
for  blow,  in  effort  to  shield  the  obnoxious  maiden, 
she  was  eventually  torn  from  my  embrace,  and  had 
I  not  on  the  instant  put  myself  strongly  on  the  de 
fensive,  striking  out  right  and  left,  the  poor  girl 
would  have  certainly  lost  her  life,  for  nothing  short 
of  a  miracle  could  have  protected  her  from  the 
fierce  onslaughts.  So  finding  my  efforts  in  the 
main  unavailing,  I  at  last  surrendered,  promising 
in  case  they  desisted  from  farther  outrage  of  this 
scandalous  nature,  I  would  accompany  them,  for  it 
was  in  no  other  way  their  minds  would  become  dis 
abused  of  the  notion  that  on  Hab-a-sha  being  freed 
I  would  join  hands  with  the  hated  rival,  an  act,  be 
it  said,  that  under  no  conditions  would  the  Ama 
zons  tolerate.  So  after  a  little  farther  parley  it 
was  mutually  agreed  to  abide  my  decision,  the 
company  starting  homeward,  my  fair  friend  in  dis 
grace  sent  to  the  rear. 

Something  more  than  half  the  distance  trav 
ersed, — the  maidens  in  seemingly  contented  frame 
of  mind,  for  the  bone  of  contention  out  of  the 
way,  nothing  seemed  to  trouble  them, — I  made  an 
unwise  remark  in  that,  "Did  a  like  scene  again 
occur  Chief  Tanawarga  should  be  immediately  in- 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT.     193 

formed  of  their  pernicious  conduct,  in  which  event 
he  would  undoubtedly  take  immediate  steps  looking 
to  his  favorite  daughter's  interests,  likewise  my 
freedom  from  insult." 

On  the  point  of  entering  an  explanation  relative 
to  the  meaning  of  the  statement,  as  above  indicated, 
I  was  again  furiously  set  upon,  a  war  of  words  the 
weapons  by  which  I  was  attacked,  until  at  length 
the  tumult  raged  to  such  an  extent  that  I  almost 
wished  I  was  within  hearing  of  the  metropolitan 
police  of  my  native  city — "London-on-the-Thames" 
— for  in  no  other  way  was  I  able  to  see  my  course 
clear.  Staying  the  tide  of  rebellion,  once  set  going, 
is  a  difficult  matter,  for  no  one  knows  when  it  will 
be  quenched.  More  especially  so  was  it  in  this 
instance,  for  when  one  has  men  only  to  do  with, 
it  is  much  easier  to  resort  to  harsh  measures. 

Again,  in  chorus  was  shouted  the  significant 
words,  "Chief  Tanawarga,  forsooth,"  his  beloved 
daughter  the  while  surveying  the  tumultuous  scene 
in  tearful  silence,  for  she  dared  not  say  a  word  in 
either  defence  or  expostulation. 

"Aye,  you  may  well  call  on  Chief  Tanawarga/' 
again  arose  from  the  multitude,  then  in  continu 
ance,  "Best  be  not  dilatory  about  it,  forasmuch  as 
he  will  be  chief  but  little  longer,  anyhow,  so  thou, 
Josiah  Bartholemew,  but  say  the  word  in  which 
event  the  doughty  monarch  will,  without  loss  of 
time,  abdicate, — but  whether  or  no  in  thy  favor 
remains  to  be  seen — nevertheless  thou  wilt  be 
crowned  king  in  his  place,  and  so  quickly,  thou 
wilt  scarcely  have  time  to  ask  'wherefore.'  Yea, 
Josiah,  thou  art  destined  to  reign  in  lieu  of  Chief 
Tanawarga." 


194     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN1  HERMIT. 

"Dethrone  the  renowned  chief?  He  who  hath' 
stood  my  friend  in  time  of  so  great  need?  He, 
who  at  all  times  and  seasons  has  sought  the  up 
building  of  a  hitherto  downtrodden  people?  De 
throne  your  king?  I  reign  in  his  place?  Why, 
what  in  the  name  of  the  gods  mean  you  ?  Really, 
I  cannot  understand  it." 

.  The  young  anarchists,  in  earnest  consultation, 
now  put  forward  a  tall,  robust  warrior, — principal 
instigator  in  the  late  tumultuous  uprising — who 
without  hesitation  or  circumlocution  urges  her 
claims  as  follows : 

"Friend  Josiah,  thou  in  thy  simplicity  doth  ques 
tion  the  acts  of  these  my  friends  and  myself,  in 
the  words,  'What  mean  you?'  Well  to  be  plain 
and  outspoken,  I  answer  the  question  b}'  saying, 
As  thou  well  knowest,  Chief  Tanawarga  is  getting 
that  old,  'twere  better  he  be  looking  the  ground 
over  for  a  last  resting  place  wherewith  to  deposit 
his  decrepit  bones;  therefore,  it  is  the  opinion  of 
these  my  counselors,  concurred  in  by  myself,  that 
lie  no  longer  be  permitted  to  hold  rule  over  a  young 
and  vigorous  people,  even  if  composed  wholly  of 
females,  moreover,  a  younger  chief  we  would  have, 
because  such  a  one  would  naturally  be  more  in 
accord  with  the  new  regime  soon  to  be  inaugurated, 
and  put  in  force  by  thyself,  and  for  the  specific 
reason  that  thou  art  the  one  peculiarly  fitted  to 
carry  out  the  principles  of  the  one,  and  put  in 
force  the  provisions  of  the  other.  Dost  understand  ? 
if  so,  then  know  this  also,  that  we  propose  to  submit 
to  no  further  dictation  from  Tanawarga,  or  for  that 
matter  anyone  else,  hence,  it  is  our  settled  purpose 
to  make  choice  of  our  own  ruler.  And,  Josiah 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     195 

Bartholomew,  thou  art  the  one  on  whom  the  choice 
has  fallen." 

"Since  when/'  in  much  perturbation  of  spirit  I 
enquire,  "was  such  decree  settled?" 

"Yesterday  eve  the  momentous  interview  was 
"held.  This  morning  the  mooted  question  decided, 
coincided  in  by  the  entire  assemblage,"  whereon 
the  first  speaker  again  says,  "  'Twas  for  this,  and 
this  alone,  thou  wert  followed  this  morning.  Tana- 
warga's  daughter,  'tow-head'  though  she  be,  didst 
anticipate  our  coming,  so  followed  hard  after  thee, 
thinking  thereby  to  frustrate  our  well  laid  plans, 
but  the  gods  with  us,  who,  Josiah  Bartholomew 
shall  prevail  against  us?  Therefore  it  was  for 
this  the  measure  was  determined  on,  which,  in  thy 
misconception  of  terms,  thou  didst  stigmatize  as 
*f oolish  and  uncalled  for.'  Dost  now  comprehend  ? 
Aye,  thou  must  see  wherein  we  were  misjudged, 
wherein  thy  usual  good  judgment  didst  come  near 
failing  thee,  in  order  to  give  place  to  thy  overween 
ing  egotism  that  never  fails  when  imagining  'twas 
thy  susceptible  heart  we  were  striving  to  captivate 
rather  than  thy  non-susceptible  head — and  that's 
the  long  and  short  of  it,  Josiah  Bartholomew, — 
coming  ruler  as  thou  art,  we  I  trow  should  be  ob 
jects  of  thy  sincere  regard  rather  than  enmity." 
"And  honor  as  well" — interposes  another,  taken 
up  by  the  first  speaker,  "Xotably  when  on  the  point 
of  being  crowned  king  to  rule  over  a  people,  com 
posed  altogether  of  the  weaker  element,  eh,  Jo 
siah  ?" 

"Weaker  element,  indeed,"  retorts  the  other. 
"Where  in  the  name  of  the  gods  will  you  find  a 
stronger  ?" 


196     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT. 

Upon  hearing  these  stirring  words  in  which  it 
was  plainly  visible  business  was  at  the  bottom, — 
rather  than  sentiment, — I  saw  how  I  had  misjudged 
them,  as  'twas  put,  "in  my  overweening  egotism," 
so  I  was  for  the  time  being  as  one  spellbound,  for 
which  reason  I  could  say  nothing  in  answer.  The 
first  speaker  coming  to  my  relief,  rather  dismay, 
for  she  spoke  in  no  uncertain  tones,  "Sir  king, 
why  answereth  thou  not?  Art  tongue  tied?  Me- 
ttiinks  'twere  well — if  such  be  the  case, — thou  seek 
to  unloose  the  unruly  member,  else,  perchance,  like 
another  'find  thy  kingly  occupation  gone/  so  we 
urge  thee  to  find  speech  whereby  to  acknowledge 
the  honor  conferred,  at  the  same  time  find  fitting 
words  to  return  thanks  for  the  high  consideration 
shown  in  thus  making  it  possible  to  take  seat  on  a 
throne,  whereon  many  an  eminent  monarch  hath 
heretofore  sat,  moreover,  a  throne  established  long 
ages  ago,  and  so  ably  maintained  by  the  now  fallen 
Tanawarga.  Speak,  Josiah  Bartholemew,  if  but 
a  single  word,  in  assent.  This  we  demand  as  our 
right." 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     197 


CHAPTER  XXXVII. 

TANAWARGA  DETHRONED. 

DURING  the  foregoing  interview  and  colloquy  the 
female  conspirators  accompanied  by  their  unwill 
ing  candidate  for  kingly  honors,  were  to  be  seen 
wending  their  way  toward  the  village,  where,  on 
arrival,  I  immediately  betook  myself  to  official 
headquarters,  the  while  firmly  resolving  to  acquaint 
the  unsuspecting  chief  with  the  designs  of  his  re 
bellious  subjects,  hoping  thereby  to  stay  the  tide 
so  strongly  setting  in  against  him,  but  like  many 
another  I  found  I  had  reckoned  without  mine 
host,  for  preceding  me  by  a  good  quarter  of  an 
hour  the  malcontents  were  in  force  ready  to  squelch 
any  incipient  signs  of  disobedience  to  their  power 
ful  will,  to  which  end  I  was  admonished  to  retire 
to  my  cabin  home,  and  there  make  preparations 
for  forthcoming  events,  whatsoever  they  might  be, 
but  of  which  I  was  assured  I  would  receive  due 
notice. 

In  reply  I  urged  the  necessity  of  time  for  re 
flection,  because  a  question  of  such  overshadowing 
magnitude  should  not  be  lightly  considered,  nor 
hastily  acted  upon. 

After  no  little  demur  at  the  proposition  the  re 
quest  was  finally  acquiesced  in,  accompanied  by  the 


198     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

adjuration,  "Best  look  to  thy  ways,  Josiah,  for  we 
are  in  no  mood  for  trifling,  besides  it  will  be  for 
thy  interest  to  say  nothing  to  Tanawarga  relative  to 
the  situation.  Indeed,  every  eye  will  be  upon  thee, 
thy  every  action  noted ;  however,  when  thou  shalt 
have  assumed  thy  rightful  place  not  one  of  us  but 
will  acknowledge  thee  ruler,  and  we  the  ruled." 

"With  this  injunction  followed  by  the  sensible 
affirmation,  the  female  strategists  take  their  de 
parture,  leaving  the  prospective  ruler  a  prey  to  the 
most  conflicting  emotions,  for  what,  I  am  forced 
to  urge,  can  the  deposed  ruler  think  of  my  out 
rageous  conduct  ?  Surely,  it  would  be  hardly  pos 
sible  to  think  otherwise  than  that  I  was  in  the  plot 
to  dethrone  his  majesty,  peradventure  prime  in 
stigator,  of  an  element  seeking  to  lay  claim  to  a 
throne,  as  declared  by  the  scheming  faction 
"founded  and  maintained  by  a  long  ancestral  chain 
of  a  noble  race." 

Indulging  reflections  of  a  somewhat  unsatisfac 
tory  nature  I  was  abruptly  called  to  a  realizing 
sense  of  the  situation  by  appearance  of  a  delegation 
of  female  warriors  detailed  as  guard  to  the  chief's 
daughter,  along  with  myself,  the  one  that  no  op 
portunity  be  afforded  for  communication  with  the 
soon-to-be-deposed  chief;  the  other  excluded  me 
from  speaking  with  the  chief's  daughter,  as  in 
either  event  the  disloyal  element  might  find  their 
well  laid  plans  disarranged, — to  say  the  least, — 
however  manifesting  little  show  of  uneasiness  in 
that  I  was  deemed  a  fit  subject  for  espionage.  I 
hastened  to  the  cabin,  finding  the  captain  labori 
ously  occupied,  striving  to  solve  some  abstruse  prob 
lem,  as  he  said,  "Beferring  to  governmental  affairs 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     199 

as  connected  with  doings  in  Mongolian  waters/'  so 
on  entering  the  cabin  I  was  saluted  in  the  words 
put  in  form  of  a  question,  "How  many  moons, 
Josiah,  since  'The  Andromeda'  set  sail  on  her  voyage 
of  discovery  ?"  So  in  true  Yankee  fashion  I  answer, 
"Oh,  about  a  dozen,  I  guess;  but  what  do  you 
mean  when  you  speak  of  the  voyage  as  one  of  dis 
covery,  when  I  had  all  along  been  given  to  under 
stand  it  was  to  give  the  Mongolians  a  thrashing?'* 

I  now  rehearse  the  story  of  the  morning  adven 
tures,  the  unseasonable  appearance  of  the  female 
element,  who,  meditating  a  move  antagonistic  to 
the  stability  of  the  reign  of  Chief  Tanawarga  by 
seating  one  Josiah  Bartholomew  on  the  soon-to-be- 
vacated  throne,  had  unnoticed  followed  me  to  the 
wood. 

At  the  close  of  the  last  sentence  a  slight  rustling 
was  heard  outside  the  cabin,  whereupon  I  throw 
open  the  door,  when  a  female  figure  is  seen  taking 
hasty  departure. 

"Aha,  under  surveillance,  it  seems.  By  heaven ! 
this  is  carrying  things  with  a  high  hand." 

We  slept  but  little,  the  captain  and  I,  on  this 
memorable  night,  in  fact,  made  little  pretence  that 
way.  On  the  contrary,  the  whole  night  through 
were  deeply  engaged  in  consultation,  until  at 
length,  after  summing  the  whole  matter  up,  came 
to  the  conclusion  'twere  better  to  let  nature  take 
its  course,  for  we  were  utterly  powerless  to  change 
the  current  of  events,  or  in  any  manner  whatso 
ever  contribute  to  the  maintenance  of  Tanawar- 
ga's  seat  on  the  throne. 

Early  on  the  following  morning  I  suggested  the 
advisability  of  seizing  the  arms,  but  on  making  the 


200     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

attempt,  what  was  my  dismay,  to  find  the  arsenal 
closely  guarded,  sentinels  stationed  both  front  and 
rear,  who  on  our  approach  gave  us  greeting  by  pro 
longed  cheers,  and  derisive  laughter,  one  of  the 
rebels  sarcastically  saying,  "You  didn't  think  to 
find  us  up  this  early  in  the  morning,  but,  good  sirs, 
please  remember  this,  if  nothing  else,  that  the 
women  are  never  caught  napping  when  there's  work 
to  be  done,  so  we  unhesitatingly  say,  better  go  about 
your  business,  leaving  your  betters  to  attend  to 
theirs  without  your  interference,  for,  as  you  can 
not  help  but  perceive,  we  hold  the  key  to  the  situa 
tion."  So  arguing  from  the  standpoint  of  diplo 
macy,  we  were  not  slow  to  take  advantage  of  the 
generous  offer,  hurriedly  returning  to  our  quarters, 
the  movement  perceptibty  hastened  upon  noticing  a 
half  dozen  muskets  pointed  in  our  direction. 

Said  the  captain,  "Were  one  of  those  ancient 
weapons  to  be  accidentally  discharged  the  shot 
would  either  fly  wide  of  the  mark,  else  take  us  in 
the  rear,  so  I  think  we  had  better  hurry  out  of 
range,"  whereon,  taking  up  the  subject,  I  enlarge 
on  the  text,  by  replying,  "He  who  fights  and  runs 
away,  or  runs  without  fighting,  as  in  our  case,  will 
without  doubt  live  to  fight  another  day." 

Remaining  quietly  in  camp  for  a  short  time,  the 
quietude  mostly  on  the  part  of  the  captain,  for  I 
was  in  a  state  of  mind  bordering  on  distraction, 
from  the  fact  that  I  was  so  soon  to  become  the 
recognized  potentate,  my  subjects,  without  excep 
tion,  of  the  feminine  gender,  my  attention  was 
called  to  a  delegation  of  warriors  numbering  a  full 
score,  a  tall,  statuesque  figure  in  lead  of  the  column 
seen  to  file  along  down  the  winding  street.  The 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     201 

column  armed  with  spear,  sabre  and  musket,  form 
in  line,  taking  station  in  front  of  the  cabin,  when 
the  captain  thunders  on  the  outer  door  with  the 
hilt  of  a  sabre,  demanding — in  the  name  of  the 
gods — instant  admittance. 

Not  being  aware  the  higher  powers  were  about 
to  take  a  hand  in  the  management  of  affairs,  I  was 
inclined  to  demur  at  the  idea  of  the  conspirators 
calling  on  the  gods  for  help,  when  they  were  seem 
ingly  so  well  able  to  help  themselves,  nevertheless, 
I  said  nothing,  but  turned  to  my  companion  quot 
ing  the  words,  "  'Tis  the  way  of  the  world,  es 
pecially  when  holding  the  balance  of  power/' 
Then,  as  quickly  as  possible  throw  the  door  wide 
open,  the  bold  leader,  without  so  much  as  "By 
your  leave,"  strides  bravely  along  to  where  I  was 
standing,  then  and  there  demanding  instant  an 
swer  to  yesterday's  request. 

"Aye,"  breaks  forth  another,  "instant  answer  is 
demanded." 

"It  seems,  worthy  friends  and  doughty  warriors, 
that  demands  take  precedence  over  the  more  courtly 
usages  of  domestic  life,  particularly  in  framing 
one's  method  of  articulation;  however,  I  am  not 
disposed  to  question  the  right  to  the  use  of  the  one, 
nor  demur  at  the  other,  so  please  accord  they  un 
worthy  servant  the  privilege  of  saying  that  he 
feels  himself  quite  incompetent  for  the  discharge 
of  duties  whereof  he  has  had  no  experience,  nor 
does  he  feel  like  assuming  honors  heretofore  worth 
ily  borne  by  the  renowned  Chief  Tanawarga,  yet, 
laying  all  this  aside,  circumstances  over  which  I 
have  no  control,  seem  to  urge  me  onward,  compel 
ling  answer  to  your  demand  in  the  affirmative.  In 


202     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN"  HERMIT. 

other,  and  plainer  language,  I  hereby  accept.  Do 
with  me  as  you  see  fit." 

"Kather  in  hesitating  language,  I  should  say." 
Then  to  her  waiting  soldiery  in  overjoyed  tones  she 
cries,  "He  accepts,  yea,  our  unanimously  chosen 
sovereign  unconditionally  accepts.  Faithful,  loyal 
comrades,  Josiah  Bartholomew — and  we  have  it 
from  his  own  lips — doth  convey  to  a  charitably  in 
clined  constituency  the  glad  tidings  that  he  will 
ingly,  gratefully  accepts  the  high  honors  incident 
to  a  throne  at  this  very  moment  in  readiness  to  re 
ceive  his  august  majesty,  so,  my  friends,  cheer. 
Aye,  three  upon  three,  let  us  give  to  the  new  ruler." 

The  above  order  complied  with,  with  several  ad 
ditions,  each  of  my  female  constituents  advances 
and  bestows  on  either  cheek  a  rousing  smack,  fol 
lowed  by  the  acclaim,  "Long  live  our  noble  king," 
then,  at  the  word  of  command,  the  column  right 
about  face,  and  file  along  the  road  leading  to 
official  headquarters,  where  it  was  expected  the  de 
posed  monarch  would  be  in  waiting. 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     203 


CHAPTER  XXXVIII. 

TNE   NEWLY   CHOSEN   KING. 

NOT  having  received  the  least  tidings  that  he  is 
to  be  superseded,  and  that  by  an  almost  entire 
stranger  to  himself  and  household,  likewise  of  an 
entirely  different  lineage,  Tanawarga,  upon  being 
confronted  by  those  whom  he  has  always  esteemed 
'his  warm  friends  and  obedient  subjects,  now  in  this 
supercilious  manner  demand  his  abdication,  will 
ingly,  or  otherwise,  is  in  a  state  of  mind  anything 
but  enviable. 

While  all  this  is  going  on  the  newly  created 
monarch, — whose  rule — supposedly  absolute — em 
braces  a  wide  extended  group  of  islands,  and  the 
ruled,  a  notable  body  of  women,  more  than  a  thou 
sand  in  number,  is  at  this  particular  moment 
lazily  outstretched  in  the  circumscribed  limits  of 
the  little  cabin,  alongside,  one  Jeremy  Lighthouse, 
late  commander  of  Her  Majesty's  frigate  "An 
dromeda/' 

All  of  a  sudden  the  door  is  thrown  violently 
open,  when,  with  dishevelled  locks,  countenance  suf 
fused  with  deep  emotion  mingled  with  fear  and 
apprehension,  who  should  appear  but  the  late 
Chief  Tanawarga. 

Entering,  he  looks  enquiringly  about  the  apart 
ment  as  though  expecting  to  see  some  one  of  his 


204     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

rebellions  subjects,  but  failing,  turns  his  atten 
tion  to  his  successor  in  kingship,  and  in  loud  sound 
ing  tones  exclaims,  "What,  sir,  is  this  I  hear  ?  Can 
it  be  possible  that  Josiah  Bartholomew,  and  thou, 
Captain  Jeremy  Lighthouse,  should  be  in  league 
with  those  she-devils,  or  do  my  ears  deceive  me? 
Can  it  be  true,  the  story  I  hear  ?  Oh,  no,  it  can 
not  be,  those  I  have  so  unselfishly  befriended,  and 
to  whom  I  have  become  so  strongly  attached,  should 
on  the  first  opportunity  presenting,  turn  against 
their  benefactor.  Yet,  whether  or  no,  I  would  a 
few  plain  words  with  you,  and  more  to  the  point, 
those  words  will  be  the  truth. 

"Dare  allow  yourselves  the  thought  I  would 
tamely  submit  to  such  an  unheard  of  outrage? 
Thereby  sacrificing  a  throne  sacred  to  the  memory 
of  those  heretofore  seated  thereon  ?  A  throne  never 
before  in  jeopardy.  Ha !  thou  little  knowest  with 
whom  ye  have  to  deal !"  Then  with  downcast  eyes, 
heaving  breast,  deep  drawn  sighs,  the  poor  de 
throned  monarch  gives  vent  to  agonizing  groans, 
whence  I  could  but  think  his  acts  belied  his  rather 
pompous  words.  These  emotions,  however  transi 
tory,  subsided  as  quickly  as  they  came. 

Soon  resuming  his  former  attitude  of  bravado, 
he  shouts,  "By  the  gods  above  and  the  devils  be 
neath,  Fll  never,  no  never,  abdicate  a  throne  so 
long  upheld  and  ably  supported  by  a  long  ances 
tral  chain,  therefore,  my  friends,  I  call  upon  you  to 
assist  and  sustain  me  in  this  the  hour  of  adversity, 
preserving  intact  my  threatened  rights.  Aye, 
rights  delegated  by  those  to  whom  the  word  traitor 
was  unknown/' 

At  this  point  in  the  chief's  stout  pleading  I  felt 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     205 

it  my  duty  to  disabuse  liis  mind  of  the  notion  that 
I  had  taken  part  with  those  seeking  his  downfall, 
so  I  replied  to  his  agonized  words,  saying : 

"Esteemed  friend,  twelve  moons  since  you  gave 
succor  to  both  myself  and  my  good  friend,  Captain 
Lighthouse.  It  is  not  my  province  to  remind  you 
of  the  imminence  of  the  peril  by  which  we  were  sur 
rounded,  and  that  you  hesitated  not  in  striving  for 
our  deliverance.  A  little  time  previous,  however,  by 
the  help  of  the  gods  in  conjunction  with  a  certain 
rubber  attachment,  my  life  was  preserved.  Now, 
how  is  it  that  you  accuse  me  of  conniving  with  your 
female  subjects  looking  to  your  dethronement? 
Nay,  on  the  contrary,  I  am  at  this  moment  ready  to 
lend  you  assistance,  do  thou  but  show  me  the  way. 
But,  Tanawarga,  what  in  the  name  of  the  gods 
can  we  do,  powerless  as  we  are  to  ward  off  threat 
ened  danger,  and  I  might  add,  helpless  as  thou  art 
in  the  hands  of  these  female  miscreants  ? 

"Again  let  me  say  to  you,  Tanawarga,  that  I 
have  reasoned,  entreated,  and  even  threatened,  but 
of  what  avail,  for  they  reply  to  my  persuasions, 
'Out  upon  thee,  Josiah  Bartholemew,  don't  be  a 
fool,  even  though  nature  did  intend  you  for  such 
a  fate,  for  now,  that  it  comes  in  thy  way  to  make 
a  man  of  thyself,  why  not  fall  in  with  the  current, 
and  quit  this  arguing,  for  we,  as  the  people,  are 
in  no  mood  to  put  up  with  vain  blustering,  on  the 
contrary,  do  thy  duty  as  laid  out,  'tis  all  we  ask.' 
And,  Tanawarga,  they  go  still  farther,  and  say, 
'When  it  comes  to  threatening,  thou  dost  reckon 
without  thy  host,  for  in  no  case  will  we  forego  that 
which  in  thy  insufferable  egotism  thou  art  pleased 
to  style  "foolhardiness."  '  And  so,  when  in  the  early 


206     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT. 

morning  a  deputation  appeared  urging  acceptance, 
I  resisted  to  the  best  of  my  abilities  their  overtures, 
begging  them  to  desist  from  attempting  to  carry 
out  the  hazardous  scheme,  but  again  they  say, — 
and  that  with  vehemence — 'We  are  fully  deter 
mined  on  our  course,  therefore  'tis  no  use  for  you, 
Josiah  Bartholemew,  to  stand  in  our  way/  Farther- 
more,  seeking  to  obtain  possession  of  the  arsenal  it 
was  found  closely  guarded,  admission  thereto  under 
whatsoever  pretence  utterly  denied,  therefore,  0 
worthy  Tanawarga,  what  could  I  do  to  stem  the 
tide  so  powerfully  setting  against  thee?  And  I 
am  of  the  firm  conviction  that  the  insurgents  thor 
oughly  in  earnest  and  well  organized  as  they  are, 
in  opposition  to  thy  natural  rights,  and  in  my  in 
terest,  rather  in  their  own — for  I  have  no  part  nor 
lot  therein — therefore,  such  being  the  case  I  should 
unhesitatingly  advise  immediate  abdication." 

"Which  advice  signifies  thou  refusest  to  help 
me,"  interposes  the  chief. 

"Not  so,  worthy  Tanawarga,  not  so,  for  I  am  not 
only  willing,  but  ready  to  turn  to  your  aid,  but  I 
am  positive  'twill  be  of  no  avail."  The  last  sen 
tence  barely  falling  from  my  lips  when  shouts, 
drums  beating,  rattling  sabres,  clashing  spears,  ac 
centuated  by  the  roll  of  musketry,  and  cries,  "All 
hail  the  new  ruler,  long  live  our  noble  king." 

A  hasty  glance  from  the  window  reveals  a  bril 
liant  array  of  female  soldiery  coming  toward  the 
cabin  at  double  quick,  which  they  seem  bent  on 
razing  to  the  ground,  that  I  might  have  no  excuse 
for  longer  tarrying  in  that  quarter,  but  better  ad 
vice  prevailing,  they  desist,  draw  up  in  line,  the 
leader  at  the  top  of  her  squeaky  voice  shouts: 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     207 

"Come  forth,  Josiah  Bartholomew,  come  forth 
and  show  thy  manly  form.  Yea,  let  this  waiting 
assemblage  gaze  on  the  one  who  is  about  to  take 
,the  oath  of  office  in  interest  of  a  throne  he  is  soon 
(to  grace,  likewise  assume  the  prerogative  of  ruler 
over  a  multitude  of  'the  fair  sex,'  who  are  only  wait 
ing  to  give  greeting  to  him  who  is  on  the  point  of 
being  endowed  with  kingly  powers." 

The  whole  column  taking  up  the  refrain,  "Yea, 
come  forth,  for  we  would  on  the  instant  proclaim 
thee  king." 

Beholding  these  demonstrations  of  loyalty  and 
good  will  in  interest  of  the  newly  created  sovereign, 
also  hearkening  to  the  shouts  of  approval,  Tana- 
warga,  completely  broken  down,  and  losing  courage, 
fell  prone  to  the  ground  in  an  agony  of  grief. 
Rallying,  however,  he  weakly  said,  "Thou  mayst 
compel  abdication,  but  in  no  other  way  wilt  thou 
gain  possession  of  the  throne,  for  I  will  under  no 
circumstances  or  conditions  yield  obedience  to  thy 
demands,"  then  about  to  continue,  he  is  quickly 
confronted  by  the  eager  soldiery,  who,  at  command 
of  the  leader,  lay  hold  of  the  fallen  chief,  thus  com 
pelling  him  to  desist  from  farther  repining,  on 
pain  of  instant  arrest. 

Notwithstanding  these  demonstrations  of  dis 
loyalty  to  their  oncewhile  king,  the  chief  attempts 
farther  entreaty,  but  before  a  single  sentence  is 
framed  his  voice  is  drowned  in  cries  of  anger, 
groans  and  hisses. 

Ah !  mused  I,  the  blessings  of  an  advanced 
stage  of  civilization  are  not  only  apparent,  but 
about  to  find  lodgment  in  the  minds  of  this  people, 
fair  application  of  the  adage,  "Where  ignorance  is 


208     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEKMIT. 

bliss,  'tis  folly  to  be  wise,"  for  until  our  appearance 
these  islands  were  harmonious,  but  now,  from  effect 
of  a  little  enlightenment  they  are  found  in  the 
throes  of  incipient  rebellion. 

I  was  soon  recalled  to  my  hazardous  position  and 
attending  responsibilities  by  hearing  voices  in  con 
tention,  Tanawarga's  drowned  by  a  multitude  in 
chorus,  "We  care  not  to  listen  to  words  from  a  de 
posed  ruler,  for  of  a  verity,  Tanawarga,  thou  art 
but  as  one  of  us,  merely  a  subject,  so  please  com 
port  thyself  accordingly,  comforting  thyself  by  the 
reflection,  'Whatsoever  the  gods  do  will,  in  that 
must  I  be  reconciled.' " 

"The  gods,  you  say.  Devils  rather,  and  she  ones 
at  that,"  interjects  the  dethroned  king. 

"Hist,  Tanawarga,  blaspheme  not,  neither  for 
get  that  so  long  as  ye  choose  to  obey  our  com 
mands,  so  far  will  it  be  well  with  you.  Disobey 
them,  loss  of  liberty,  dungeon  and  chains  thy  por 
tion." 

"Usurp  my  functions,  take  away  my  liberty,  fet 
ter  with  chains  my  body,  threaten  my  life  you 
may,  but  tie  my  tongue  you  cannot,  nor  will  I  will 
ingly  submit  to  dictation  from  such  as  thou,  by  giv 
ing  place  to  another,"  cries  the  aged  chieftain, 
as  with  head  erect  and  dauntless  mien  he  stands 
face  to  face  with  the  maddened  throng,  who,  in 
clined  to  take  him  at  his  word,  are  on  the  point  of 
ordering  his  arrest,  when  with  a  leap  and  bound 
he  clears  the  crowd,  fleeing  to  an  adjacent  wood, 
but  ere  a  half  score  steps  are  taken  he  drops  to  the 
ground,  the  report  of  a  musket  telling  the  sad  tale 
of  a  noble  life  sacrificed  on  the  altar  of  expediency. 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     209 

not  the  first  time  in  the  wo.  id's  history  like  scenes 
have  transpired. 

In  hope,  rather  than  expectation  the  shot  had 
not  taken  mortal  effect,  I  hurry  to  his  assistance, 
but  too  late,  for  ere  I  reach  his  side  he  has  drawn 
his  last  breath. 

Thus,  at  the  hands  of  a  people  it  has  been  his 
aim  to  serve  with  fidelity  and  truth,  perishes  one 
of  the  most  noble,  self-sacrificing  souls  it  has  ever 
been  my  good  fortune  to  know.  While  I,  Josiah 
Bartholomew,  at  one  bound  am  raised  to  a  throne, 
and  such  a  throne,  such  a  people ! 

Search  the  world  over,  was  ever  a  like  scene  wit 
nessed  ?  And  now  came,  when  too  late,  the 
thought,  should  my  female  subjects  at  some  future 
time  take  it  into  their  heads  to  serve  me  as  they 
have  just  done  their  former  beloved  chief,  where 
would  lie  the  difference  as  between  him  and  me? 
Cogitations  of  this  or  any  other  nature  came  to  a 
speedy  ending,  for  instead,  the  word  of  command 
came  to  my  ears,  "Chief  Bartholemew,  without  a 
moment's  delay  repair  to  government  headquarters, 
then  and  there  take  the  oath  of  office." 

Line  of  march  again  taken  up,  we  keep  step  to 
beat  of  drum  and  squeaky  fife,  songs  from  a  thou 
sand  throats  rising  in  the  still  air,  the  words  in 
chorus  running: 

"The  ling  is  dead,  long  live  the  king, 
This  fact  to  all  the  world  proclaim, 
Then  shout  and  likewise  sing, 

'Twas  only  done  by  might  and  main." 

Upon  arriving  at  government  house,  my  inaugu 
ration  is  without  the  least  delay  commenced, 


210     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

though  with  little  ceremony,  after  which  all  ad 
journ  to  well  furnished  tables,  where  a  "feast  of 
reason  and  flow  of  soul"  is  for  a  time  indulged.  In 
point  of  fact  it  was  a  generous  banquet  in  honor 
of  the  new  sovereign,  who  stands  before  his  people 
in  attitude  of  a  newly  fledged  monarch,  hoping  to 
bear  his  honors  meekly,  for  assuming  censorship 
over  the  female  element  alone  'twas  not  to  be  won 
dered  at  that  I  felt  myself  unequal  to  the  task, 
and  now  were  heard  the  words,  "Our  king,  a  speech 
from  the  king,"  so  rising  in  my  place,  I  proceeded 
to  address  the  admiring  throng  as  follows : 

"Kind  friends, — and  as  I  trust — loyal  subjects, 
in  entering  on  the  duties  attending  the  exalted 
station  to  which  I  have  been  called,  mainly,  as  I 
believe  from  appreciation  of  services  in  the  past, 
I  desire  to  call  attention  to  this  one  fact,  viz.,  in 
interest  of  good  government,  I  shall  expect  to  be 
unto  you  a  law,  my  every  act  to  go  unquestioned, 
for,  and  I  say  it  in  all  kindness,  in  no  other  way  can 
the  wheels  of  government  move  with  due  regularity 
and  without  friction,  therefore,  whatsoever  meas 
ures  it  may  be  thought  best  to  adopt,  will  as  I  trust 
be  accepted  without  question,  hesitation,  or  criti 
cism.  Farthermore,  it  is  my  wish  to  be  able  to 
call  on  you  at  any  time  for  counsel,"  this  received 
with  shouts  of  approval,  for  it  is  a  noteworthy  fact 
that  the  female  portion  of  any  community  are 
never  more  happy  than  when  solicited  for  advice. 

"Hence,  in  our  consultations,  I  deem  it  best  that 
a  proper  regard  be  had  for  system,  to  the  end  that 
all  our  efforts  be  directed  in  channels  most  con 
ducive  to  the  general  welfare  of  the  community, 
therefore,  be  it  known  that  I,  Josiah  Bartholemew, 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

duly  elected  king,  do  hereby  confer  on  our  mutual 
friend  and  co-worker,  Captain  Jeremy  Lighthouse, 
the  office  of  Lieutenant-Governor,  his  commission 
to  date  from  the  present  moment,  so,  Governor, 
will  you  please  take  a  seat  on  the  platform,  that  all 
may  take  note  of  the  honesty  depicted  on  thy 
rugged  features." 

I  next  selected  a  commander-in-chief  of  military 
forces,  with  power  to  choose  subordinate  officers. 

It  was  my  settled  purpose  to  place  my  people  on 
thorough  military  footing,  on  the  principle,  1  sup 
pose,  "In  time  of  peace  prepare  for  war."  Not  that 
I  feared  my  little  army  would  be  called  out  in  in 
terest  of  "foreign  invasion,"  but  rather  in  interest 
of  self-protection,  as  in  the  casts  of  Tanawarga, 
who  would  have  been  able,  were  a  police  organized, 
to  put  down  the  late  rebellion,  for — as  I  argue — 
the  fires  of  rebellion  once  kindled,  it  is  a  hard  mat 
ter  to  quench  the  flames  thereby  engendered,  so  I 
deemed  it  essential  to  be  backed  by  a  force  ade 
quate  to  put  down  incipient  stages  of  rebellion^ 
come  in  what  shape  they  may. 

The  funeral  obsequies  of  the  late  chief  were 
faithfully  performed,  due  regard  paid  to  the  mem 
ory  of  one  who  had  so  long  filled  the  highest  posi 
tion  in  government,  his  last  resting  place  a  little 
mound  in  rear  of  the  government  buildings,  where 
a  monument  has  since  been  erected. 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 


CHAPTEE  XXXIX. 

SEATED   IX    HIGH    PLACES. 

IT  was  now  my  fortune,  whether  good  or  bad,  to 
find  myself  seated  on  a  throne  established  in  in 
terest  of  one  Josiah  Bartholemew,  but  whether 
firmly  or  not  to  be  determined  hereafter,  yet,  en 
trenched,  as  I  was  led  to  believe,  in  the  hearts  of  a 
people  whose  welfare  was  my  chief  concern;  a 
people  who,  by  their  own  free  will,  had  honored 
me  with  the  highest  position  in  their  gift  without 
a  dissenting  voice,  therefore  it  was  my  province, 
as  it  was  certainly  my  choice,  to  so  steer  clear  of 
the  shoals  and  quicksands  of  statecraft  as  to  avoid 
the  interminable  jealousy,  inherent  in  feminine  na 
ture,  and  could  I  bring  about  the  desired  result 
my  mission  would  not  have  been,  to  say  the  least, 
a  failure. 

To  this  end  I  was  "willing  to  bend  my  every 
energy,  at  the  same  time  heed  the  injunction  laid 
upon  me  by  my  ghostly  visitor,  viz.,  "make  no  out 
ward  show  of  preference,"  surely  a  difficult  task 
when  taking  into  account  that  I  was  already  half 
in  love,  and  daily  becoming  more  and  more  enam 
ored  of  the  fair  maiden's  charms.  At  the  same  time 
it  stood  me  in  hand  to  make  use  of  a  large  amount 
of  circumspection  in  my  affairs  of  the  heart,  else 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT.     213 

I  might  just  as  well  consider  my  reign  of  limited 
duration. 

'Twas  thus  passed  days,  weeks,  months,  until 
three  years  have  expired  since  the  ill-fated  "An 
dromeda"  set  sail  on  an  expedition  wherein  my  fate 
was  so  largely  involved,  and  whereto  have  culmin 
ated  my  being  placed  in  possession  of  a  throne  on 
which  have  at  different  times  sat  descendants  of  an 
ancestry  dating  away  back  to  the  very  beginning, 
whereon  I  was  led  to  the  reflection — "On  supposi 
tion  that  blue  blood  counts,  why,  in  goodness'  name, 
am  I  not  head  and  shoulders  above  many  of  the 
most  exalted  of  the  world's  potentates?" 

Some  prophetic  spirit  must  surely  have  given, 
the  Lieutenant-Governor  warning  that  trouble  was 
in  store,  for  going  his  morning  rounds  he  after 
ward  gave  me  the  assurance  that  mutterings  savor 
ing  of  discontent  were  rife,  from  the  fact  that  in 
my  selection  of  government  officials  I  was  in  the 
habit  of  "showing  preference."  As  to  myself,  how 
ever,  I  had  neither  heard  or  seen  anything  to  cause 
uneasiness  relative  to  affairs  not  being  on  good  foot 
ing,  so  rallying  my  friend  because  of  needless 
alarm,  I  gave  him  to  understand  his  fears  were  ut 
terly  without  foundation,  of  this  I  was  positive; 
going  still  farther,  I  accused  the  captain  of  being 
fully  as  bad  as  the  women  folk,  forever  borrowing 
trouble  if  it  could  not  be  otherwise  secured. 

"Maybe  you  ai  ?  right,"  he  returns,  "at  the  same 
time,  while  adhering  to  my  belief,  I  would  advise 
keeping  a  weather  eye  on  the  beauties,  forasmuch 
as  you  hope  to  retain  possession  of  your  throne,  so 
must  you  be  prepared  for  emergencies  that  may 
chance  to  arise,  and  take  my  word  for  it,  you  arex 


214     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT. 

liable  at  any  hour  of  the  day  to  hear  the  significant 
•words :  'Josiah  Bartholemew,  the  keys  !  Please  de 
liver  to  us  the  keys!'  And,  your  majesty,  they'll 
be  in  earnest  about  it,  too." 

Preparations  were  now  made  for  a  trip  to  my 
outlying  possessions,  a  project  at  one  time  dis 
cussed,  but  abandoned  for  the  time  being,  but 
again  revived  by  the  procuring  and  stowing  on 
board  a  little  sail  craft  provisions  for  a  three-days' 
voyage,  together  with  such  arms  and  ammunition 
as  were  deemed  necessary  for  protection  from  wild 
ibeasts,  whether  human  or  brute,  though  as  to 
the  former  we  had  no  fears,  for,  aside  from  my  own 
people  there  was  not,  to  my  knowledge,  a  human 
being  within  many  hundred  miles.  So,  on  a  morn 
ing  just  before  sunrise,  we  shoved  off,  the  whole 
community  of  people  witnessing  our  departure, 
though  it  had  not  been  my  intention  to  make  it  a 
public  affair;  in  fact  it  was  a  part  of  my  plan  to 
keep  it  a  secret  in  order  to  test  the  captain's  prog 
nostications  of  evil.  But,  apprised  of  the  fact,  all, 
both  old  and  young,  were  at  the  landing  place  in 
readiness  to  bid  us  "God-speed"  and  "bon  voyage," 
though  nothing  said  of  safe  return,  in  itself 
enough,  one  would  think,  to  create  suspicion,  and 
had  I  at  the  moment  comprehended  its  signifi 
cance,  it  might  have  caused  our  remaining  at 
home,  else  contributed  to  speedy  return. 

The  breeze  was  fair.  The  boat's  sailing  quali 
ties,  while  not  of  the  best,  were  equal  to  the  breeze, 
so  a  few  hours'  sailing  carried  us  within  hailing 
distance  of  the  shore  of  one  of  the  principal 
islands,  wherein  was  comprised  a  part  of  my 
princely  heritage.  And  now  at  this  late  hour  came 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     215 

the  unwelcome  thought:  Why  have  I  in  my 
thoughtlessness  entrusted  governmental  affairs  to 
the  hands  of  the  very  one  to  whom  I  should  not; 
otherwise,  my  Secretary  of  State,  the  fair  Hab-a- 
sha  ?  For  what  better  opportunity  to  wreak  ven 
geance  on  an  innocent  victim?  And  if  taken  ad 
vantage  of,  why  not  at  the  same  time  overthrow 
•the  Government  by  taking  possession  of  the  throne  ? 
Alas !  I  have  much  yet  to  learn  before  becoming  a 
skilled  diploma"-,  especially  when  the  duties  wholly 
pertain  to  a  nationality  of  women.  "Fair  and 
false,"  a  name  given  to  the  sex;  would  it  prove 
applicable  in  my  case?  I  knew  not,  but  as  things 
stood,  I  could  only  wait  and  hope  for  the  best. 

Swiftly  revolving  these  weighty  problems,  my 
inind  in  a  whirl  of  excitement  consequent  on  the 
thought  of  my  fair  enchantress  being  exposed  maybe 
to  insult,  or  even  danger,  I  was  soon  awakened 
to  consciousness  and  the  Governor's  dulcet  tones 
by  the  worldty  exclamation :  "Rouse  up,  my  hearty ! 
Have  your  wits  gone  wool  gathering?  Else,  why 
this  oppressive  silence?  But  I  say,  your  majesty, 
do  you  know  we  are  nearing  the  island,  and  in 
about  five  minutes  will  have  touched  shore?"  In 
less  than  the  allotted  five  minutes,  however,  our 
little  craft  glided  into  a  land-locked  harbor,  the 
ailent  waters  of  such  transparency  that  objects 
could  be  plainly  seen  a  long  way  beneath  the  sur 
face. 

Lowering  the  sail  the  Governor  takes  to  an  oar, 
a  few  gentle  strokes  sending  the  boat  alongside  a 
moss-grown  bank,  then  stepping  ashore  we  are  soon 
in  readiness  for  our  inland  journey,  mid-day  find 
ing  us  well  advanced,  and  as  the  air  was  uncom- 


216     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

monly  sultry  we  came  to  a  halt  under  the  wide- 
spreading  branches  of  a  dark-colored  cypress, 
whereon  the  Captain  produces  a  well-filled  lunch 
basket,  afterward  pipes,  which  smoked,  we  resign 
ourselves  to  much-needed  rest.  The  Governor  to 
sleep,  I  resuming  my  wearisome  speculations  rela 
tive  to  my  jeopardized  throne  and  longing  for  a 
glimpse  of  "the  girl  I  left  behind  me/'  Mean 
while,  my  good  friend's  forebodings  of  ill  coming 
upon  me  with  redoubled  force,  I  fall  to  cursing 
the  folly  that  led  me  into  such  a  fearful  predica 
ment,  and  now,  left  to  myself,  I  would  have  turned 
back  without  the  least  hesitation.  Indeed,  I  was 
in  a  state  of  mind  analogous  to  that  of  Orimentides 
when  giving  ear  to  the  Serpent's  syren  voice — 
"Which  the  most  to  be  desired,  the  delights  of 
Paradise,  or  going  contrary  to  the  wishes  of  the 
Master?"'  Indeed,  I  was  in  a  mood  to  welcome 
even  my  friend  "The  Hermit,"  for  if  there  was 
ever  a  time  that  I  needed  counsel,  ghostly  or 
otherwise,  'twas  at  this  precious  moment.  Again, 
if  my  subjects  cannot  be  depended  upon  in  my 
absence  to  behave  themselves,  better  know  it  at 
once  and  take  measures  accordingly.  Yet,  taking 
this  sensible  view  of  the  case,  I  did  not  anticipate 
the  startling  scenes  ere  long  to  be  encountered. 

Thinking  my  friend,  the  Governor,  had  been 
sleeping  quite  long  enough,  for  a  long  distance 
was  yet  to  be  traversed  before  night  should  have  set 
in,  I  gave  a  shout  that  started  him  to  his  feet  with 
the  remark:  "For  the  Lord's  sake,  Josiah,  that 
was  enough  to  raise  the  dead,  let  alone  the  living. 
But,  I  say,  those  she  devils  are  upon  us;  better 
look  to  thyself  before  it  is  too  late,"  then  giving 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     217 

a  hasty  glance  around,  silently  commenced  strap 
ping  his  knapsack  preparatory  to  resuming  the 
journey,  making  excuse  for  his  hasty  language  be 
cause  his  mind  was  so  fearfully  harassed  by  imag 
inings  of  impending  calamity  that  it  was  hardly 
the  thing  to  be  held  responsible  for  his  inane  utter- 
ings. 

"Well,  Captain,"  I  rejoin,  "let  us  drop  the  wor 
risome  affair,  and  if  the  worst  come  to  the  worst, 
why,  we  cannot  be  held  responsible,  nor  will  it 
do  one  particle  of  good  to  worry  or  fret  about  it." 

"For  a  verity  a  wise  thought  and  a  seasonable 
suggestion,  so  here  goes."  Taking  up  his  staff,  we 
resume  our  travels,  pushing  ahead,  our  pathway 
leading  along  low,  wooded  hill-sides,  here  and  there 
some  dilapidated,  nearly  obliterated  habitation — 
now  a  cabin,  lonely,  deserted ;  there  a  field  yet 
bearing  marks  of  the  plow,  choked  with  rank-grow 
ing  weeds,  others  overrun  with  luxuriant  growths 
of  tropical  vegetation.  Thus  in  genial  converse  we 
pursue  our  journey  until  the  waning  light  an 
nounces  the  approach  of  night.  So  we  halt,  ar 
range  our  belongings  and  retire  to  rest,  the  Lieu- 
tenant-Governor  to  peaceful,  unintermittent  slum 
ber,  while  as  to  myself,  I  could  neither  sleep  nor 
rest,  until,  nearly  worn  out,  a  broad  pencil  of  light 
gives  token  of  early  morning. 

A  hurried  breakfast  and  we  resume  our  journey, 
our  way  leading  along  and  up  a  chain  of  moun 
tainous  heights,  for  it  was  my  settled  purpose 
to  take  an  extended  survey  of  my  island  posses 
sions.  It  is  but  little  time,  however,  before  we 
enter  a  dark,  gruesome  defile  leading  upward,  still 
upward,  mid-forenoon  finding  our  steps  tending 


218     THE  OLD  MOTXTAIX  HERMIT. 

toward  a  precipitous  range  that,  from  all  appear 
ance,  had  never  before  been  trod  by  the  foot  of 
human  being;  indeed,  a  wilder,  more  desolate,  for 
bidding  region  it  had  never  been  my  lot  to  en 
counter,  nor  was  there  the  most  remote  trace  of 
habitation,  on  the  contrary,  nature  in  all  its  mag 
nificence  of  gloom,  held  undisputed  sway.  For 
which  it  seemed  hard  to  account,  considering  that 
this  was  the  most  ancient  known  portion  of  the 
globe,  the  original  dwellers,  according  to  the  Old 
Hermit's  story,  "one  of  the  lost  tribes/'  The  hour 
for  the  noon-day  meal  arrived,  but  when  on  the 
point  of  being  commenced  a  wondrously  strange 
thing  happened.  First,  a  weird  sort  of  chant,  in 
tones  surprisingly  familiar,  the  refrain  at  the  end 
ing  of  each  couplet :  "Josiah  Bartholemew,  beware, 
yea,  beware,  for  thou  art  but  little  way  from  the 
toils  of  the  Tempter.'" 

"Aha!  Heardst  thou  this?'"'"  in  dismay  I  cry, 
the  last  word  sinking  to  a  whisper.  To  which  the 
captain  replies  in  his  customary  vein :  "  'Ton  the 
word  of  an  honest  old  salt  and  the  saints  com 
bined,  the  ghostly  old  fraud  still  sticks  by  you, 
for  'tis  he,  I  reckon,  singing  that  infernal  gibber 
ish."'  Yes,  I  am  positive  'tis  he,  come  to  give  warn 
ing,  but  look  in  whatsoever  direction  we  would 
neither  ghostly  nor  material  form  could  we  see. 
Nevertheless  I  was  thoroughly  convinced  the  owner 
of  that  voice  must  have  habitation  in  the  clouds, 
now  fast  gathering  overhead :  yet  to  solve  the  mys 
tery  it  was  proposed  we  hasten  up  the  steep  de 
clivity,  which  feat  accomplished,  we  find  ourselves 
at  the  entrance  of  a  rock-bound  cavern,  but  so  deep 
and  darksome  did  it  appear  that  it  became  a  de- 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     219 

batable  question  whether  it  were  safe  to  enter.  So 
for  a  time  we  remain  stationary,  until  at  length  the 
weird  voice  again  comes  to  our  startled  ears: 
"Josiah  Bartholemew.  beware,  for  ere  thou  art  sen 
sible  of  the  peril  thou  wilt  have  surrendered  to  the 
wiles  of  the  Tempter."' 

Upon  hearing  these  last  words,  without  further 
hesitation  we  plunge  ahead,  regardless  of  what  may 
lie  in  our  pathway,  the  cavernous  gloom  enshroud 
ing  us  as  a  funeral  pall. 

Thus  pursuing  our  course,  we  enter  an  apart 
ment,  seemingly  hewn  out  of  the  solid  rock,  but 
its  immense  proportions  suggested  the  idea  of  a 
natural  cavern,  whereupon  the  Captain,  in  senti 
mental  mood  breaks  forth :  ''Behold  Nature's 
charms  scattered  about  in  the  utmost  profusion; 
and  who  shall  venture  the  opinion  that  in  this 
splendid  outlay  those  charms  be  not  quite  ex 
hausted,  as  witness  a  wide  hall  of  immense  length 
brilliantly  illuminated,  from  either  side  depend 
glittering  stalagmites,  while  thickly  scattered  about 
are  to  be  seen  nuggets  of  virgin  gold,  and,  more 
astounding  than  all  else,  on  a  high,  uplifted  throne, 
clad  in  garments  bedecked  with  priceless  gems, 
diamonds  of  the  first  water,  massive  head  on  which 
rests  a  crown  gorgeous  in  the  extreme,  reclines  a 
form,  but  whether  of  terrestrial  or  celestial  mould 
'tis  hard  to  determine.  But  to  make  the  affair 
still  more  perplexing,  at  this  richly-endowed  be 
ing's  side,  in  easy,  unconstrained  attitude,  the  right 
arm  familiarly  resting  on  the  proud  monarch's 
shoulder,  stands  a  most  beautiful  maiden,  in  ap 
pearance  some  eighteen  years  of  age. 


220     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 


CHAPTEE  XL. 

MY   WITS    STILL    AT    LOGGERHEADS. 

How  shall  I  describe  this  beauteous  maiden? 
Though  were  she  of  earthly,  rather  than  heavenly 
mould,  'twould  be  an  easy  task,  but,  gifted  from 
realms  above,  as  she  appears,  'tis  hard  to  do.  Not 
knowing  the  one  from  the  other,  however,  I  will, 
in  my  ignorance,  make  an  attempt  in  this  wise, 
to  wit:  Form  faultless  in  contour,  generous  of  pro 
portions,  chestnut  locks  built  up  about  a  shapely 
head  in  massive  coils,  countenance  in  expression 
singularly  sweet,  cheeks  on  which  were  blended  in 
about  equal  proportions  the  rose  and  lily,  soft 
brown  eyes,  lips  full  and  ripe,  delicate  and  well- 
proportioned  hands,  fingers  on  which  were  rings 
set  with  pearls,  feet  encased  in  golden-wrought 
sandals,  while  over  the  entire  form  was  loosely 
thrown  a  garment  of  crimson  velvet.  Indeed,  a 
queen  in  her  own  right  was  this,  the  loveliest  of 
all  maidens. 

But,  can  this  personage  seated  on  a  throne  of 
such  rare  splendor,  can  this,  I  say,  be  my  friend 
of  ghostly  fame?  Aye!  it  must  be  he.  Else  why 
his  speech  so  very  like?  Why  the  countenance  so 
familiar — except  a  more  youthful  look — hence,  if 
correct  in  my  diagnosis,  time  must  have  come  to 
a  halt  in  my  friend's  favor.  I  have  but  little  time, 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     221 

however,  to  indulge  these  strange  fantasies,  for 
I  am  quickly  recalled  to  myself  and  surroundings 
by  a  voice:  "Josiah  Bartholemew,  I  have  taken  it 
upon  myself  to  direct  thy  steps  hitherward  to  the 
end  that  we  hold  conference,  never,  unless  circum 
stances  do  so  warrant,  to  be  renewed,  and,  as  in 
the  past  I  have  given  thee  both  counsel  and  ad 
vice,  so  do  I  again,  yet,  as  before  said,  maybe  for 
the  last  time.  Dost  ask  why  ?  Because  I  am  about 
to  depart  for  another  field  of  operations,  maybe  to 
another  and  distant  planet,  also  to  another  people, 
my  mission  to  do  the  will  of  the  Master — a  people, 
be  it  said,  to  whom  I  am  no  stranger,  because 
they  have  many  times  before  beheld  'The  Old 
Mountain  Hermit.'  Moreover,  I  would  have  you 
to  know  that  my  labors  are  not  confined  to  this 
diminutive  sphere,  but  embrace  many  of  the  larger 
planets,  yet,  ere  I  take  my  departure  I  would  a 
few  words  with  you,  to  the  end  that  you  may  be 
enabled,  in  part  at  least,  to  comprehend  many 
things  which  thou  dost  not  as  yet  know  concerning 
a  future  life. 

"Having,  on  many  another  occasion  and  other 
circumstances,  shown  that  there  is  a  future,  not 
only  to  human  beings,  but  all  that  draw  the  breath 
of  life;  also  proven  to  thy  satisfaction  that  I  am 
as  I  claimed,  'the  First  Born/  I  now  desire  thee 
to  know  this  maiden  fair,  on  whom  thou  art 
disposed  to  look  so  kindly,  is  none  other  than  my 
maternal  ancestor,  Orimentides,  whose  child  while 
in  the  flesh  I  was.  The  maiden  on  whom  thine  eyes 
do  at  this  moment  rest,  the  fairest  of  all  beings, 
terrestrial  or  celestial;  whose  hallowed  remains 
went  down  alongside  those,  the  most  renowned  of 


222     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT. 

ancient  world  characters,  who  do  now,  and  forever 
will,  have  habitation  in  the  spirit  world,  is  mine 
own  mother. 

"As  thou  dost  now  behold  the  fair  creature,  so 
was  Orimentides  when  first  from  her  Maker's 
hand.  Canst  wonder  the  rare  loveliness  here  dis 
played  didst  so  contribute  to  her  husband,  Ori- 
mentes,  meditating  flight  when  first  beholding  her? 
Doth  wonder  that  he  should  fall  an  easy  victim  to 
such  powerful  temptations?  For  who  would  not 
do  likewise  under  the  same  conditions?  Hence, 
as  I've  ofttimes  warned  thee,  beware  of  the  Ser 
pent  !  in  proof  of  which  I  will  now  show  to  you 
the  fair  one  as  she  appeared  shortly  after  exchang 
ing  the  felicities  of  Paradise  for  a  world  of  sin, 
wretchedness  and  woe." 

The  last  sentence  barely  uttered  when  the  cavern 
becomes  steeped  in  gloom,  almost  total  darkness 
prevailing.  But  an  instant  later  the  gloom  passes 
away,  succeeded  by  an  illumination  causing  the 
stalagmites  to  glow  with  their  former  pristine 
vigor, .  the  gem-encrusted  walls  gain  their  accus 
tomed  brilliancy.  But  what  is  this  I  behold  ?  And 
on  whose  face  do  I  gaze?  A  female  form.  True, 
yet  how  changed !  A  face  once  of  rare  loveliness, 
but  now,  alas !  full  of  sorrow. 

In  tones  of  the  deepest  solemnit}r  the  voice  of 
the  occupant  of  the  throne  utters  the  one  brief 
sentence:  "Behold  what  sin  hath  wrought!"  And 
well  might  this  be  said,  for  in  lieu  of  beatific  vision 
in  the  garb  of  virtue;  in  place  of  crimson  velvets, 
gems  and  precious  stones,  behold,  bowed,  weeping, 
utterly  cast  down,  a  poor,  forlorn,  grief-stricken 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     223 

creature.  Thus,  all  her  beauty  gone,  who  so  poor 
as  to  do  her  reverence? 

The  fiat  has  gone  forth,  the  die  cast,  the  poor, 
miserable,  cast-off  creature  banished  from  Eden's 
glories.  She  is  bid  "Depart!"  a  world  sin-cursed, 
sterile,  barren  desert  to  look  on  her  coming  and 
glory  in  her  shame,  for  now  the  most  wearisome 
toil  barely  sufficing  for  meager  subsistence;  the 
Master's  curse  follows  her  every  footstep.  Indeed, 
she  is  now  the  most  forlorn  and  to  be  pitied  crea 
ture,  human  or  brute,  on  the  face  of  the  earth. 

Is  all  this  a  dream?  an  illusion  of  the  senses? 
Is  yon  proud  monarch,  his  throne  outvying  all 
I've  ever  before  heard  of  barbaric  splendor?  Or 
is  he  a  magician,  skilled  in  the  arts  of  jugglery? 
Else,  as  he  would  have  me  believe,  is  he  really 
"the  First  Born"  ? 

While  the  scene  as  mentioned  was  transpiring, 
my  eyes  meanwhile  riveted  on  the  strange  pair, 
the  form  of  Orimentides  dissolves,  melting  away 
in  thin  air  with  not  the  most  remote  trace  remain 
ing  to  show  that  she  was  once  there.  The  golden 
throne,  however,  keeping  its  place,  likewise  its 
strange  occupant,  while  words  are  again  heard  pro 
ceeding  from  the  latter :  "Josiah  Bartholemew,  and 
thou,  Captain  Jeremy  Lighthouse,  place  on  record 
what  thou  hast  both  seen  and  heard,  for  I  wouldst 
thou  bear  witness  that  both  are  simply  manifesta 
tions  of  supernal  power.  At  the  same  time  remem 
ber  those  whose  existence  in  the  mortal  hath  ceased 
do  take  on  spirit  forms,  wherefore  I  do  most  sol 
emnly  affirm  those  who  went  down  in  the  "An 
dromeda"  are  now  at  thy  side,  and  'tis  through 
their  influence  and  special  desire  I  have  thus  re- 


226     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

concocting  some  scheme  whereby  to  string  up  your 
corporate  anatomy  to  the  topmost  bough  of  the 
first  handy  tree,  else  toast  both  over  a  roasting 
fire,  blast  'em  I" 

"Nay,  nay,  Captain,  you're  too  dismal  by  half 
in  your  prognostications.  On  the  contrary,  they'll 
have  killed,  dressed  and  barbecued  'the  fatted  calf 
in  readiness  for  the  arrival  of  the  'prodigal  son/  r 

Thus  reassured  the  Captain's  philosophic  reason 
ings  tending  to  allay  my  fears — then,  too,  I  could 
not  fail  in  remembrance  that  the  "Old  Hermit's" 
premonitions,  whether  of  danger  or  its  opposite, 
had  proved  eminently  trustworthy.  Farthermore, 
I  was  positive  from  his  manner  that  he  was  keep 
ing  something  back,  which  I  later  found  to  be  the 
case,  much  to  my  gratification. 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT.  227 


CHAPTER  XLI. 

RETURN  TO  THE   CAPITOL  AND  ITS  RESULT. 

NIGHTFALL  fast  hastening  on,  it  was  deemed 
best  to  remain  as  \ve  now  were  until  morning 
should  have  arrived,  when  we  would  hasten  our 
return,  but  the  whole  night  long  I  could  not  sleep ; 
I  hardly  dared  think,  for  if  things  at  home  were  as 
represented,  my  return  would  be  hailed  with  any 
thing  but  joy.  Nevertheless,  upon  the  approach  of 
morn  we  were  astir,  and  making  our  way  along 
down  the  mountain  side,  reaching  the  place  of  em 
barkation  along  toward  mid-afternoon,  only  to  find 
our  little  craft  missing,  and,  search  as  we  would, 
nowhere  could  it  be  found,  nor  anything  pertaining 
to  it  save  a  rag  of  sailcloth  probably  torn  from  the 
mainsail  in  securing  the  boat, 

"Our  designing  enemies,  taking  advantage  of 
our  absence,  have  doubtless  taken  possession  and 
paddled  'their  little  canoe'  over  to  the  opposite 
shore/'  suggested  the  Captain,  who,  according  to 
his  usual  wont,  let  fly  a  rousing  oath  to  accentuate 
his  feelings,  for  he  swore  by  all  that's  great  and 
good,  "'Twas  a  blasted  shame  to  leave  the  ruler  of 
a  kingdom,  along  with  the  Lieutenant-Governor, 
in  such  a  predicament,"  and  I  naturally  coincided 
in  his  views. 

By   surprising   good   luck,    certainly   not   fore- 


224     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

vealed  affairs  common  to  the  spirit  world ;  farther- 
more,  through  their  pleading  I  now  convince  thee 
wherein  thou  hast  done  a  grievous  wrong  by 
placing  on  the  throne  one  who,  at  this  moment 
doth  in  spirit  guise  implore  thee  to  be  guided  by 
her  counsels,  for  in  her  abiding  love  she  would 
shield  thee  from  anticipated  peril. 

"Look  you,  Josiah  !  See,  she  advances,  she  takes 
the  place  vacated  by  Orimentides.  But  look,  I  be 
seech  !"  When  on  the  instant,  as  affirmed,  she  ap 
pears,  taking  station  at  his  side,  an  expression  of 
anxiety,  blended  with  compassion,  suffusing  her 
rosy  cheeks. 

Again  speaks  "The  First  Born'':  "Josiah,  this, 
thy  good  angel,  hath  purchased  thy  life  at  expense 
of  her  own,  for  it  was  either  her  life  the  forfeit 
or  thine  in  expiation  of  thy  foolish  doings;  thus 
in  accepting  the  first  alternative  she  has  met  a 
fate  which,  by  all  the  rules  of  justice,  should  have 
been  thine,  therefore,  I  do  solemnly  vouch  for  the 
fact  that  never  was  so  great  love  ever  before  mani 
fest  in  the  fish.  Let  this,  then,  to  thy  dying  hour 
be  a  lesson,  that  when  thou  first  show  preference 
for  one  of  Orimentides'  daughters,  then  do  thy 
troubles  have  beginning,  and  where  they  will  end 
no  finite  being  hath  the  least  knowledge." 

Lost  in  reverie  I  remain  for  some  time,  scarcely 
knowing  what  to  think,  much  less  how  to  act,  for 
the  proceedings  had  been  of  such  an  extraordinary 
character  as  to  defy  the  most  astute  reasoner  in  at 
tempting  to  work  out  a  problem  where  everything 
was  so  shadowy,  and  yet  in  many  respects  so  real. 
I  am  soon,  however,  recalled  to  a  realizing  sense 
of  the  phenomenal  condition  of  affairs  by  hearing 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     225 

a  sound  suggestive  of  swiftly  turning  wheels.  Not 
in  the  least  suspecting  whence  the  noise  proceeds, 
I  am  about  to  make  enquiry,  when,  casting  my 
eyes  aloft,  a  still  greater  surprise  awaits  me,  for 
I  perceive  the  golden  throne  in  all  its  glittering 
paraphernalia,  the  materialized  spirit  of  the  late 
chief's  daughter — all  have  vanished,  nothing  left 
save  he  who  so  lately  sat  enthroned  in  state.  In 
short,  all  things  pertaining  to  former  grandeur 
have,  as  by  the  magician's  wand,  totally  disap 
peared. 

I  rub  my  eyes,  stretch  forth  a  hand,  pluck  my 
auburn  locks  in  hope  rather  than  in  expectation 
of  finding  out  whether  I  am,  as  purported,  the 
aforesaid  Josiah  Bartholemew,  king,  not  of  the 
cannibal  islands  exactly,  though  unless  things  take 
a  decided  change  for  the  better  I  will  not  be  king 
at  all,  else  materialized  counterfeit  of  the  aforesaid. 
Nevertheless,  casting  my  eyes  in  the  direction  of 
the  Captain,  I  am  pleased  to  find  that  astute 
gentleman  in  a  like  state  of  bewilderment,  as  evi 
denced  by  again  resorting  to  the  ruse  of  scratching 
his  head,  probably  to  awaken  some  long  dormant 
attribute,  whereby  to  solve  the  difficult  problem, 
else  some  less  worthy,  but  none  the  less  useful  ob 
ject.  However,  managing  to  regain,  at  least  par 
tially,  his  ordinary  faculties,  he  tremblingly  articu 
lates  :  "Josiah,  my  boy,  let's  up  and  away,  but  first 
help  me  with  my  knapsack;  then  let's  hurry,  for 
I  am  more  than  persuaded  those  she  devils  are 
raisins:  the  devil,  to  say  the  least,  and  if  you  want 
to  keep  possession  of  your  throne  you'll  have  to 
make  haste,  for  I  wouldn't  be  in  the  least  surprised 
if  your  'faithful  subjects'  were  at  this  moment 


228     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

sight,  I  had,  just  before  starting  on  the  cruise, 
taken  possession  of  a  hatchet,  strapping  it  to  my 
knapsack,  so  that  'twas  not  long  before  a  raft  was 
well  under  way  and  ready  for  sea  shortly  before 
sunset. 

On  the  Governor's  proposal  to  wait  till  morning 
before  setting  sail,  I  at  once  negatived  the  proposi 
tion  by  saying:  "No,  my  dear  Captain,  let's  be  off 
at  once.  For  if,  as  suspected,  enemies  are  awaiting 
us  at  the  capitol,  why,  the  sooner  we  confront  them 
the  better/' 

Eaising  a  pole  to  which  was  attached  the  dilapi 
dated  rag  of  a  sail,  and  all  things  in  readiness,  the 
shades  of  night  falling  fast,  we  were  away,  my 
threatened  rights  the  loadstone  impelling  us  toward 
the  island  village.  Meanwhile,  a  stiff  breeze  spring 
ing  up,  fair  progress  is  made,  break  of  day  finding 
us  within  sight  of  the  town  and  now  in  view  of  an 
ticipated  strife.  I  could  hardly  contain  my  feel 
ings  or  restrain  my  impatience  to  confront  my 
rebellious  subjects — alas !  mine  no  longer,  I  much 
fear,  the  "Old  Hermit's"  prediction  coming  on  me 
with  redoubled  force.  I  was  in  full  expectation  of 
finding  my  people,  through  factional  strife,  rent 
and  torn,  for  was  I  not  thoroughly  assured  that 
she  whom  I  had  left  in  charge  was  brought  to  me 
face  to  face?  How,  then,  could  I  indulge  the 
faintest  hope  that  I  was  ever  again  to  resume  my 
old  place  in  the  affections  of  my  people?  For,  of 
this  much  I  was  morally  certain,  either  that  I  had 
been  outrageously  imposed  upon,  else  the  predic 
tion  verified. 

"A  conjuror's  trick,  Josiah,  a  conjuror's  trick. 
Of  this  you  may  be  certain,"  speaks  the  Governor. 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     229 

At  the  same  time  I  was  just  as  certain  there  was 
a  malicious  smile  hovering  on  his  lips. 

The  cabins  sighted,  we  plunge  onward  until  at 
length  an  exclamation  from  the  Captain,  though 
he  tries  hard  to  smother  it :  "Holy  Moses !"  But 
gets  no  further,  for  on  the  instant  from  the  top 
most  pinnacle  of  the  capitol,  waving  in  the  breeze 
appeared  the  "Union  Jack,"  followed  by  a  rolling 
volley  of  musketry.  But  what  means  this  mar 
tial  array?  as  in  compact  columns  the  female 
soldiery  file  along  the  wood-bordered  highway, 
keeping  step  to  "The  Girl  I  Left  Behind  Me," 
then  draw  up  on  the  sandy  beach,  ground  arms  and 
await  my  coming.  But  what  their  purpose,  kindly 
greetings  or  hostile  reception  ?  Ha  !  Do  my  eyes 
deceive  me  ?  Nay !  No  deception  in  this,  for  ar 
rayed  in  plain,  though  effective  garb,  in  her  hand 
a  staff  from  which  wave  the  kingly  colors,  appears 
Tanawarga's  fair  daughter,  Hab-a-sha.  Enthusi 
asm,  born  of  hope,  impels  me  to  shout  as  never  be 
fore  :  "Long  live  the  Queen !  long  live  my  faithful 
subjects !"  At  word  of  command  muskets  are 
brought  to  the  shoulder,  and  as  the  raft  touches 
shore  a  volley  rings  out,  and  along  with  the  waving 
of  banners  a  shout  goes  up :  "Welcome  to  and 
God  bless  our  noble  king!" 

Upon  witnessing  a  demonstration  so  heartily 
given  in  my  favor  I  could  hardly  repress  a  cry  of 
joy,  nor  contain  myself  sufficient  to  acknowledge 
in  adequate  terms  the  unexpected  greeting.  How 
ever,  a  few  grains  of  prompting  from  the  Captain 
in  the  words:  "Brace  up,  my  boy,- everything  is 
all  right,  just  as  I  said  it  would  be" — the  old  fraud 
— tempting  me  to  exclaim : 


230     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

"Aha !  old  sea  dog,  there's  something  in  the 
•wind,  and,  as  the  'Old  Hermit'  would  say,  'Best 
look  to  thyself — I  would  say — for  as  between  you 
and  me,  accounts  will  some  day  be  squared  and 
final  settlement  made." 

It  had  now  become  quite  evident,  indeed  I  was 
fully  convinced  that  I  had  been  the  innocent  vic 
tim  of  a  stupendous  piece  of  fraud, — to  call  it  by 
no  stronger  name — yet  how  the  conspirator-in-chief 
could  without  my  knowledge  or  connivance,  have 
been  enticed  to  the  mountain  cavern,  was  something 
hard  to  conceive,  yet  it  was  quite  plain  that  in  over 
weening  confidence,  and  a  larger  share  of  egotism 
than  commonly  falls  to  mortals  in  the  flesh,  I  was 
the  butt  of  a  huge  joke,  so  my  mind  was  quickly 
made  up  to  return  the  compliment  at  an  early  day, 
and  in  my  friends'  own  coin. 

At  length  we  are  landed,  when  hand  shaking  is 
freely  indulged,  and  under  existing  circumstances  I 
could  have  taken  each  of  my  female  subjects  in  my 
arms,  so  elated  was  I  at  this  home  coming. 

Again  the  soldiery  form  in  column,  take  up  the 
line  of  march,  soon  arriving  at  the  capitol,  where 
another  surprise  awaits  me,  in  shape  of  a  bountiful 
repast. 

I  need  not  hesitate  to  say  that  both  "His  Maj 
esty"  and  the  Lieutenant-Governor  did  ample  jus 
tice  to  the  feast,  for  we  were  in  nearly  a  famish 
ing  condition,  our  usual  allowance  for  the  past 
day  or  two  having  been  somewhat  limited. 

Judging  from  the  conciliatory  ways  and  kindness 
manifested,  I  was  inclined  to  the  opinion  my  people 
were  trying  to  make  amends  for  the  anguish  of 
spirit  and  solicitude  accruing  from  the  scurvy  trick 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     231 

played  on  their  beloved  ruler,  though  I  could  hardly 
think  they  were  privy  to  the  outrage — for  each  and 
all  now  vied  in  endeavor  to  make  my  home  coming 
all  that  I  could  have  expected,  or  even  desired,  any 
how,  I  argued  that  it  was  useless  to  indulge  in  mis 
givings  as  to  the  future  stability  of  my  throne. 

Notwithstanding  these  evidences  of  respect  and 
loyalty,  I  was  well  aware  that  it  behooved  me  to  be 
on  my  guard,  for,  as  the  "wind  bloweth  where  it 
listeth,  and  thou  hearest  the  sound  thereof,  but 
canst  not  tell  whence  it  cometh,  nor  whither  it 
goeth,"  so  was  my  estimate  of  female  character,  one 
clay  here  and  another  day  there,  and  now  a  thought 
in  the  highest  degree  suggestive,  to  wit,  "Hath  all 
gone  well  during  my  absence?"  answered  by  a 
staunch  adherent,  ""Shortly  after  your  majesty 
had  gotten  well  under  way  a  minor  faction  took  up 
arms.  Swearing  by  the  gods  and  your  good  name, 
'They  would  never,  no,  never,  be  subject  to  woman's 
rule,  much  less  to  that  of  the  hated  daughter  of 
Chief  Tanawarga/  The  threat  going  abroad,  in 
deed,  it  was  openly  promulgated.  Hab-a-sha  or 
dered  the  long  roll  sounded,  appealing  to  those 
delegated  to  stand  by  one  whose  authority  was  un 
questioned, — to  assemble  at  the  capitol  grounds, 
also  as  many  of  the  malcontents  as  chose  to  do  so, 
and  after  all  were  gathered  the  maiden  proceeded 
to  address  the  multitude  in  the  words : 

"  'Friends,  it  deeply  grieves  me  to  find  so  many 
disloyal  subjects,  and  why,  let  me  ask,  do  you,  so 
soon  after  the  king's  departure  take  it  upon  your 
selves  to  rise  in  rebellion?  Why  thus  attempt 
coercion  against  one  deputed  by  the  king  himself  to 
reign  during  his  limited  absence  ? 


232     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN"  HERMIT. 

"  'Hath  our  good  friend, — our  worthy  father's 
successor — done  anything  to  cause  this  outbreak, 
or  hath  anyone  of  you  been  wronged?  If  so,  why 
not  wait  the  king's  return,  then  present  your  griev 
ances, — if  so  be  you  have  any,  which  I  must  doubt 
— anyhow,  hath  not  his  majesty  through  worthy 
deeds  proclaimed  an  abiding  interest  in  your  wel 
fare?  Hath  he  not  by  much  sacrifice  sought  in 
every  way  to  better  the  condition  of  his  people? 
Why,  look  about  you  and  see  the  wondrous  change 
wrought,  and  by  his  hand  alone?  Thus  in  lieu  of 
poorly  constructed  cabins,  now,  well  furnished, 
comfortable  habitations;  instead  of  skins  stripped 
from  the  back  of  wild  beasts  for  clothing,  now, 
spun  and  woven  garments. 

"  'In  place  of  meager  crops,  now,  well  filled  gran 
aries  ;  instead  of  ignorance  and  illiteracy  linked 
with  its  hand-maid  superstition  you  have  a  consider 
able  amount  of  knowledge,  all  these  tending  to  gen 
tleness  of  spirit  and  kindly  ways,  and  now  in  view 
of  these  manifold  blessings  how  can  you  so  demean 
yourselves  as  to  raise  the  standard  of  rebellion  in 
opposition  to  one  who  hath  done  so  much  for  you  ? 
Hence  I  conjure  you  lay  down  your  arms,  retire  to 
your  homes,  and  the  word  of  a  notable  chief's 
daughter  if  you  have  honest  grievances,  Josiah 
Bartholomew,  in  role  of  king,  will  gladly  hearken, 
and  cheerfully  redress  any  wrongs  you  will  with 
good  proof  present. 

"  'Away  then  to  your  homes,  and  let  me  not 
again  hear  of  any  more  proceedings  of  this  char 
acter.'  " 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN"  HERMIT.     233 


CHAPTER  XLII. 

LOOKING  IXTO  MATTERS. 

IMAGINE  the  delight  and  unqualified  surprise 
when  listening  to  the  sensible  words  flowing  from 
the  lips  of  one  it  was  my  delight  to  honor;  more 
over  herein  was  confirmed  my  previous  estimate 
relative  to  her  exalted  character,  yet  how  little  did 
I  suspect  the  inherent  nobility  so  conspicuously 
displayed  on  an  occasion  demanding  the  utmost  for 
bearance  and  gentleness,  yet  with  a  firmness  'twould 
be  of  value  for  others  to  imitate. 

The  admirable  address  concluded,  the  malcon 
tents  lay  down  their  arms,  acknowledging  the  error 
into  which  they  had  fallen  by  not  having  viewed  the 
subject  in  a  proper  light,  and  now  that  there 
seemed  no  good  reason  why  a  course  inimical  to  the 
weal  of  the  community  in  general,  and  the  good 
name  of  a  ruler  of  their  own  unfettered  choice  in 
particular,  why  should  they  not  return  to  their 
allegiance  ? 

The  history,  as  above  related,  was  told  me  by 
one  on  whom  I  could  rely,  so  I  again  questioned 
her  in  regard  to  the  missing  boat,  thus  leaving  the 
captain  and  I  at  the  mercy  of  the  elements  without 
shelter  of  any  kind,  nor  food,  upon  which  she  re- 


234     THE  OU>  MOFXTAIX  HERMIT. 

plied,  **'  'twas  simply  a  part  of  the  scheme  to  delay 
your  return,  so  you  would  not  be  likely  to  oppose 
the  rebellion?  faction  because  you  would  hare  no 
opportunity." 

Determining  to  give  my  people  to  understand 
that  having  again  taken  reins  in  hand,  likewise 
possession  of  the  throne  and  all  the  name  implies. 
— I  must  perforce  be  considered  the  ruler,  and  they 
the  ruled, — so  I  promulgated  an  edict  setting  forth 
my  views  regarding  governmental  functions,  also 
what  might  hereafter  be  expected. — in  other  words, 
unqualified  obedience  to  whatsoever  demands  I 
might  see  fit  to  make.  Farthermore,  should  any  be 
inclined  to  question  my  publicly  expressed  views 
thereby  tending  to  stir  up  strife,  or  in  any  manner 
seek  to  foster  revolutionary  notions,  I  should  with 
out  hesitancy  take  prompt  measures  to  nip  senti 
ments  of  that  nature  in  the  bud.  In  fact,  and  to 
sum  the  matter  up.  incipient  stages  of  rebellion 
were  to  be  immediately  quenched,  even  though  the 
people  were  crushed,  so  I  issued  a  mandate  sum 
moning  my  people  to  gather  near  the  front  of  the 
capitol  on  the  following  afternoon. 

From  the  foregoing  it  will  be  seen  how  nearly 
right  were  my  friends,  the  Governor  and  the  Old 
Hermit,  in  their  efforts  to  eliminate  from  my  addled 
brain  that  overweening  thirst  for  power  which 
seemed  to  take  precedence  over  everything  else,  and 
never  more  ardently  displayed  than  when  pressing 
my  ambitious  design  on  a  people  who  during  the 
long  reign  of  Tanawarga  had  at  all  times  a  warm 
place  in  his  affections,  at  the  same  time  accorded 
privileges  which  in  my  insufferable  pride  I  -was 
seeking  to  destrov. 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     235 

The  hour  arrived,  and  the  populace  were  to  be 
seen  in  all  directions  hastening  toward  the  rendez 
vous,  some  in  eager  questioning,  others  manifesting 
a  large  amount  of  expectancy,  while  all  were  in  evi 
dent  suspense,  for  not  one  understood  the  signi 
ficance  of  the  call. 


236     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 


CHAPTER  XLIIL 

I     MAKE     A     SPEECH. 

ALL  unconscious  of  the  before-mentioned  ex 
citement  I  proceed  to  the  capitol  in  all  the  conscious 
serenity  of  well  doing,  and  when  all  is  in  readiness 
I  take  my  fair  friend  by  the  hand  and  lead  her  to 
the  front,  in  full  expectation  of  delivering  my  ad 
dress,  but,  alas,  how  mistaken  I  was,  not  having  be 
forehand  gauged  the  temper  of  my  auditors,  hence 
illy  prepared  for  the  reception  that  awaited  me,  for 
I  was  immediately  assailed  by  all  manner  of  the 
most  hideous  noises,  mingled  with  hisses,  groans 
and  cries  of  derision,  along  with  utterances  of  too 
scurrilous  a  nature  to  be  easily  borne. 

"Ah,"  thought  I,  "here's  civilization  with  a  ven 
geance,"  and  to  say  that  I  was  startled  upon  wit 
nessing  this  singular  demonstration,  particularly 
coming  on  the  heel  of  the  late  royal  welcome,  would 
but  feebly  express  my  emotions,  in  fact,  I  was  com 
pletely  dumfounded,  yet,  had  I  fully  realized  my 
position  before  this  people,  and  taken  steps  accord 
ingly,  matters  might  have  been  so  patched  up  as  to 
give  me  a  longer  lease  of  kingship,  to  say  the  least. 
But  as  it  was,  I  was  in  no  mood  for  temporizing, 
so  I  again  perform  an  act  in  the  tragedy  that  must 
for  all  time  redound  to  mv  foolhardiness.  This 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT.     237 

foolish  act  preceded  by  the  thought,  "These  mani 
festations  of  hatred,  from  whatever  source  arising, 
must  now,  and  forever  after,  cease,  and  what  is 
more,  shall  not  in  my  august  presence  be  counte 
nanced,"  so  arising  in  all  the  dignity  of  an  assumed 
potentate  I  once  more  commence  to  speak,  by  say 
ing,  "Friends  and  subjects,"  but  am  the  second 
time  brought  to  a  halt  by  another  storm  of  hisses, 
to  which  I  pay  not  the  least  attention,  but  keep  on, 
"I  am  sorely  grieved  to  find  my  people  in  this 
unamiable  mood,  indeed,  I  had  good  reasons  for 
thinking  to  have  an  altogether  different  reception. 

"What,  let  me  ask,  has  been  done  to  call  forth 
these  expressions  of  dislike,  and  even  hatred  ?  Nay, 
not  the  latter  surely — for  it  is  impossible  for  me  to 
conceive  that  enmity  is  harbored  within  your  breasts 
toward  one  who  has  since  his  coming  among  you 
had  your  best  interests  at  heart,  therefore,  I  am 
inclined  in  the  belief  some  evil  minded  person  has 
been  sowing  seeds  of  discord  in  your  midst,  else 
why  this  outbreak  of  scorn  and  derision  ?  Have  we 
not  always  dwelt  together  in  peace  and  harmony? 
Hath  anything  been  done  or  said  militating  against 
the  peace  of  the  commonwealth?  If  not,  why  so 
turn  against  thy  chief  ?" 

"Chief  indeed !"  rose  from  out  the  dense  mass  at 
my  front,  "best  recall  that  hasty  word,  for,  Josiah 
Bartholemew,  if  peradventure  chief  now,  thou  wilt 
be  so  but  little  longer/*' 

Still  unheeding  these  querulous  outbursts,  I  re 
sume, — rather,  so  attempt, — when  a  tall,  statuesque 
figure  on  my  right  interjects,  "Your  august  maj 
esty,  I  would  a  question  propound, — but  will  first 
ask  why  thou.  canst  believe  thy  subjects  are  an- 


238     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

gerecl?     Yet  providing  such  be  the  case,  for  what 
good  cause? 

"Cause,  forsooth,  when  thou  wert  warned,  and 
forewarned.  Of  what  ?  Ha !  thou  dost  wince. 
The  thrust  was  too  deep  to  suit  thy  tender  feelings ; 
wherefore  I  repeat,  thou  wert  both  warned  and  fore 
warned,  yea,  and  admonished,  but  to  what  end? 
Are  these  mine  sayings  enigmatical,  then  look 
backward,  taking  note  of  tlry  previous  utterances, 
and  explanation  will  be  forthcoming.  Ah !  thou 
may  well  turn  pale.  It  best  suits  thy  sallow  com 
plexion,  but  to  the  point,  as  aforesaid,  thou  wert 
warned  that  in  thy  dealings  with  us, — I  had  it  on 
my  tongue  end  to  say  thy  people — thine  no  longer 
I  trow — thou  wast  not  to  show  preference.  Didst 
thou  not  make  solemn  vow  to  heed  this  injunction  ? 
How  hast  thou  kept  the  promise?  Simply  by 
breaking  it,  and  now,  in  thy  humility,  thou  would 
ask  in  what  manner  ?  For  answer,  by  placing  the 
crown  on  the  head  of  one  for  whom  thou  well  know- 
est  we  have  no  love,  scarcely  esteem,  aye !  one  whom 
from  this  time  on  we  will  entirely  disown,  even  if 
thou  hath  the  hardihood  to  present  her  in  the  name 
of  'queen/  and  yet,  you  ask,  'Why  are  we  angered  ?' 
but  let  me  say  to  thee  this, — and  'tis  in  which  all 
are  agreed — throw  this,  thy  favorite  overboard,  at 
tend  faithfully  to  thy  duties,  patterning  after  the 
notable  chief,  the  late  Tanawarga,  'Showing  no 
preference,'  and  we  will  take  up  allegiance,  ac 
knowledging  ourselves  as  heretofore  thy  willing 
subjects,  thus  at  all  times  ready  to  obey  thy  slight 
est  wish.  On  the  other  hand  refuse  these  generous 
offers  of  reconciliation  at  thy  peril,  remembering 
we  deal  not  in  idle  threats." 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     239 

Like  unto  the  fool  I  was,  I  returned  threat  for 
threat,  but  ere  I  had  said  a  half  score  words,  I  was 
abruptly  brought  to  my  senses  by  the  word  of  com 
mand.,  "Right  about  face,  present  arms,  take  aim, 
stand  fast  as  ye  are." 

Turning  to  the  right  what  was  my  dismay  to 
find  a  platoon  of  female  soldiery,  in  the  hand  of 
each  a  loaded  musket,  aimed  directly  at  my  heart. 

Anticipating  the  n^xt  command  "fire,"  I  hesi 
tate  but  an  instant,  i.r  death  at  the  hand  of  my 
subjects  was  not  pleasant  to  contemplate — I  raised 
my  hand  as  signal  that  I  surrendered,  thereupon 
the  word  was  passed  alo^g  the  line,  "He  surrenders. 
Ground  arms,  right  shoulder  shift,  face  to  the 
left,  forward  march."  Then  again  to  the  "Girl 
I  Left  Behind  Me,"  followed  by  "The  Rogues' 
March,"  I  was  drummed  out  of  camp,  the  music 
executed  by  fife  and  drum — better,  I  thought,  than 
on  my  devoted  head. 

The  platoon  again  take  up  line  of  march,  file 
along  down  the  dusty  highway,  wheel  to  the  right, 
countermarch  toward  where  I  am  standing,  then  at 
signal  from  the  commander  of  his  royal  majesty's 
forces,  stack  arms  and  proceed  to  bind  my  unre 
sisting  hands.  "Out  upon  you  for  a  lot  of 
heathen," — in  my  indignation  at  the  iniquitous  out 
rage  I  impulsively  shout,  "What  think  ye  to  make 
by  taking  this  unheard  of  course?" 

The  only  answer  to  the  appeal,  "Remove  yon 
caitiff  to  the  guardhouse,"  whereupon  I  was  seized 
and  dragged  to  the  lockup,  there  left  to  chew  the 
bitter  cud  of  fancy  free.  Sentinels  were  imme 
diately  stationed  both  in  front  and  rear  of  the  log 


240     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

prison,  thus  precluding  any  attempt  to  escape, 
had  I  any  thought  of  so  doing. 

"Less  sumptuous  quarters  have  been  assigned  to 
more  renowned  monarchs  than  I,  and  with  even  less 
hope  of  rescue,"  as  throwing  my  weary  form  down 
on  a  bench, — the  only  article  of  furniture  in  my 
prison — I  soliloquize,  then  resign  myself  to  the 
inevitable. 

Indulging  these  not  over-pleasing  reflections  rela 
tive  to  my  lost  estate,  a  bundle  of  straw,  the  couch 
whereon  I  rest  my  weary  limbs,  all  around  my 
prison  cell,  peaceful  and  quiet.  The  sentinels'  light 
tread  mingled  with  a  confused  hum  of  voices,  all 
that  I  heard.  Until  all  of  a  sudden  the  clash  of 
arms  came  to  my  ears,  accentuated  by  the  marshal 
ing  of  troops.  Their  commander's  voice  in  wrathy 
accents  proclaiming,  "Avast  there,  shipmates.  What 
in  the  name  of  Moses  have  ye  done  with  Josiah 
Bartholemew  ?" 

"Fair  question,  Captain  Jeremy  Lighthouse, 
honest  answer  shall  be  given,  in  that  it  is  our  desire 
you  take  the  place  of  one  who  by  his  own  doings 
hath  nearly  undone  that  we  have  been  so  long 
striving  to  do,  viz.,  preserve  harmony  in  our 
midst." 

"  Ton  the  word  of  an  honest  sailor  methinks  ye 
are  over  hasty  in  your  conclusions, — to  say  nothing 
of  the  imprudence  involved — for  look  you,  ladies,  I 
am  neither  by  birth  nor  education,  and  I  might 
add,  experience — fitted  for  kingly  duties,  nor  am  I 
at  all  disposed  to  have  charge  of  a  government  run 
wholly  in  interest  of  the  fair  sex,  composed  as  it  is 
of  an  intelligent,  beautiful  and  altogether  lovely 
constituency." 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN"  HERMIT.     241 

The  doughty  Captain  was  doubtless  bent  on  a 
little  sarcasm,  at  the  same  time  adding  a  modicum 
of  flattery  as  an  offset,  so  continuing : 

"Having  for  many  years  followed  the  sea  for  a 
livelihood  I've  had  little  opportunity,  and  less  de 
sire,  to  become  proficient  in  governmental  duties, 
and  while  I've  commanded  ships  of  war  and  of 
peace,  I've  never  hitherto  been  called  to  officiate  in 
capacity  of  ruler  over  a  whole  people;  moreover, 
while  I  duly  appreciate  the  high  honor  you  would 
confer  upon  me,  I  must  beg  to  be  excused  from  the 
onerous  duties  pertaining  to,  and  attendant  on  lofty 
positions,  carrying  with  them,  as'  they  always  do, 
tasks  of  the  most  thankless  description." 

"Thankless  indeed,"  from  a  score  of  excited 
voices.  "Methinks  thou  art  the  one  to  return  thanks, 
for  we  do  assure  you  the  task  is  only  destitute  of 
thanks,  when  the  object  of  regard  merits  the  scourge 
rather  than  praise.  Yet  be  this  as  it  may,  'tis  not 
for  thee  to  say  whether  to  accept  or  decline  the  ex 
alted  honor  lying  in  oi~r  gift,  and  within  thy  reach, 
for  in  that  we  have  the  power,  so  do  we  command 
strict  obedience  to  the  request." 

"When  is  the  said  demand  to  be  put  in  execu 
tion?"  asks  the  astonished  candidate. 

"On  this  very  instant  do  we  demand  acceptance, 
immediately  followed  by  being  seated  on  the  now 
vacated  throne." 

"Well,  well,  so  be  it,"  returns  the  victim,  more 
in  sorrow  than  anger,  be  it  said — a  sudden  thought 
coming  to  his  relief  suggestive  in  the  highest  de 
gree,  so  soliloquizing,  he  continues,  "Blast  'em, 
I'll  make  it  warm  for  the  jades,  I'll  give  ye  all  the 
government  ye'll  need,  and  more  than  you'll  want, 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

else  my  name's  not  Jeremy  Lighthouse,"  then  aloud 
to  the  anxious  auditors,  "But  when  and  where  am 
I  to  begin?" 

"To  the  first  we  answer,  immediately;  to  the 
second,  precisely  where  thou  dost  stand." 

"But,"  again  questioning,  "are  there  no  cere 
monies  attendant  on  my  upward  flight  to  glory,  no 
inauguration  ceremonies  befitting  the  occasion  ?  No 
ball,  no  dancing,  and  the  like  ?" 

"Make  not  light  of  thy  forthcoming  exalted 
station,  'tis  of  too  serious  moment  to  indulge  in  un 
called  for  pleasantries,  wherefore,  but  say  the  word, 
and  a  deputation  to  escort  your  majesty  to  the 
chair  of  state  will  be  in  attendance." 

"Away,  then,  to  thy  domiciles,"  commands  the 
newly  fledged  sovereign,  "and  whensoever  it  doth 
please  his  royal  majesty  to  accord  audience  with 
his  subjects,  due  notice  will  be  given,  meantime  I 
will  select  my  sailing  master,  boatswain,  ship's  car 
penter,  and  other  high  officials  as  may  seem  neces 
sary,  giving  notice  to  all  concerned,  so  I  again  order 
thee  Begone,'  let  me  see  no  more  of  ye  until  such 
time  as  it  may  be  my  good  pleasure  to  give  sum 
mons." 

Thus  the — to  all  outward  appearance,  though 
inwardly  chuckling — wrathy  monarch  takes,  as  he 
believes,  the  wiser  course,  resolving  to  submit  to 
no  half  way  measures,  on  the  contrary,  give  his 
subjects  at  the  outset  to  understand  that  nothing 
short  of  the  most  implicit  obedience  to  his  man 
dates  would  suffice. 

These  commands, — though  seemingly  rigorous^ 
struck  the  right  chord,  as  evidenced  by  the  assem 
blage  going  their  several  ways  without  a  murmur, 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     243 

because  satisfied  with  the  new  order  of  things,  and 
it  may  well  be  questioned  whether  it  is  not  an  actual 
fact  that  the  so-called  weaker  sex  are  never  more 
happy  than  when  favored  with  a  master  whose  rule 
though  strict,  never  verges  on  the  effeminate. 

Night  was  fast  approaching,  as  evidenced  by  the 
gloom  and  darkness  enshrouding  my  prison,  set 
tling  in  corners  and  cranny  holes  of  the  cabin,  yet 
I  still  clung  to  my  bed  of  straw,  a  prey  to  agoniz 
ing  emotions,  the  thought  coming  home  with  re 
doubled  force: 

"How  long,  oh,  Lord,  how  long,  am  I  to  be  a  vic 
tim  to  this  outrageous  conspiracy?  How  long  left 
in  this  suffering  condition,  hunger  and  thirst  con 
tributing  to  my  tortures,  intensified  by  pain  from 
the  hempen  cords  binding  my  wrists,  sinking  so 
deeply  into  the  flesh  as  to  make  the  pain  almost  un 
bearable,"  so  one  can  easily  conceive  into  what  a 
state  of  mind  I  was  fast  verging. 

Thus  was  iny  condition,  thus  I  lay  on  my  bed  of 
straw,  meanwhile  hovering  between  sleep  and  wake- 
fulness  when  I  am  startled  by  the  door  creaking  on 
its  hinges. 

Eaising  my  head,  I  perceive  a  form  enter,  close 
the  door,  and  quickly  glide  toward  me.  But  who 
the  stranger  ?  Ha  !  'tis  no  stranger,  the  voice  is  too 
familiar ;  she  speaks,  I  recognize  my  best  friend  and 
sweetheart — Tanawarga's  beloved  daughter. 

"Alas,  "  she  moans,  "how  is  it  I  find  thee  in  this 
miserable  condition?"  were  the  words  falling  from 
the  dear  one,  yet  before  I  gain  courage  to  answer  the 
question  she  draws  from  her  girdle  a  sharp  bladed 
knife,  which,  with  quick  movement,  she  severs  the 
cord  binding  my  wrists,  then  throwing  herself  in 


244     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

my  arras,  ejaculates:  "Josiah,  dear,  before  many 
hours  have  flown  thou  shalt  be  liberated  from  bonds 
and  prison,  also  this  ignoble  people  shall  before 
long  wonder  what  has  become  of  their  oncewhile 
chief.  But  I  must  away,  for  I  hear  footsteps  com 
ing  this  way." 

With  stealthy  tread  she  hurries  away,  the  deep 
ening  shades  of  night  contributing  to  passing  in 
safety  the  sentinels'  sharp  eyes. 

Once  more  the  door  is  thrown  ajar,  a  voice  in 
harsh  accents  and  less  agreeable  tones  than  those 
to  which  I've  just  been  listening,  speaks :  "Josiah 
Bartholemew,  these  rigorous  measures  doubtless 
seem  uncalled  for,  peradventure  degrading,  es 
pecially  to  one  of  your  sensitive  nature,  yet  'tis 
but  the  penalty  paid  for  thy  consummate  foolish 
ness, — I  might  as  well  say  idiocy — so  Judith  and  I 
have  taken  the  liberty  to  call  on  the  dethroned 
monarch  for  the  purpose  of  looking  after  his  health, 
and  enquiring  as  to  how  the  exchange  pleaseth  him. 
Ha !  ha !" 

"Oh !  bother  health,  exchange,  suffering,  mis 
fortunes  or  anything  of  like  nature,  or  that  cometli 
within  range  of  thy  capacity  for  ill  doing,"  I  cry 
in  my  indignation.  "Best  depart  the  way  ye  came, 
and  leave  the  unfortunate  victim  of  thy  wrath  to 
shoulder  his  own  burdens,  which  such  as  thou,  if 
ever  so  well  disposed,  could  not  lighten,  and  which 
I  well  know  are  foreign  to  thy  errand/' 

"Not  humbled  yet,  rebellious  fool?  Best  jot 
this  down  in  your  book  of  record,  that  a  time  may 
come  when  the  lively  tune  you  now  play  will  be 
changed  to  one  of  slower  movement,  and  withal 
more  solemn.  Then  will  you  go  down  on  your 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     245 

knees,  imploring  pardon  for  your  misdeeds.  Dost 
imagine  'twill  be  granted?  If  so,  little  dost  thou 
understand  the  temper  of  thy  late  subjects, — though 
of  the  gentler  sex  they  be,  Heaven  spare  us  if  they 
be  tenderer  than  thou ;  but  we  will  now  take  leave, 
as  thou  didst  suggest,  then  if  in  mood  to  hearken  to 
our  sayings  will  perchance  return." 


246     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 


CHAPTER  XLIV. 

THE   CAPTAIN  PAYS  ME  A  VISIT. 

MY  female  tormentors  having  taken  their  de 
parture,  I  feel  greatly  relieved,  and  now  all  is 
still  save  the  measured  footfalls  of  the  vigilant  sen 
tinels,  nor  is  there  anything  heard  or  seen,  not  even 
my  prison  walls,  for  the  darkness — unrelieved  by 
crack,  window  or  door, — is  total. 

On  appearance  of  my  nocturnal  visitors  I  had 
risen,  but  now  that  they  have  had  the  kindness 
to  depart  I  again  betake  myself  to  my  pile  of 
straw  when  soon  afterward  a  heavy  footstep  comes 
to  my  quickened  ears,  accompanied  by  the  hasty 
challenge  of  the  guards,  "Who  comes  there?" 

"Best  drop  those  infernal  shooting  irons,"  the 
response.  "Best  stand  aside,  for  your  ruler  would 
pass  unquestioned."  When  immediately  arms  are 
grounded,  the  salute  given,  followed  by  the  words, 
"Pass  in,  your  majesty,"  and  before  I  had  time 
to  ejaculate,  "My  God',  the  Captain !"  that  note 
worthy  gentleman,  and  now  regal  sovereign,  stood 
before  me  in  all  the  glory  of  a  crowned  king,  his 
bulky  arms  entwined  about  my  neck. 

"Hold  on,  kind  friend,"  I  exclaim,  "though  a 
sailor  hug,  'tis  far  too  powerful  for  my  tender 
.anatomy  to  withstand." 

"Ha !  ha  !"  he  laughingly  rejoins.     "  Ton  my 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT.     247 

word,  Josiah  Bartholomew,  tender !  No  doubt 
'twould  be  more  to  your  liking  were  the  arms  of 
your  beloved  Hab-a-sha  about  your  neck.  But  I 
say,  my  boy,  how  fares  it  with  thee  ?" 

"Fare  and  be  d d,"  I  return.  "But  to  tell 

the  honest  truth,  I'd  like  nothing  better  than  to 
have  the  Old  Hermit  put  in  an  appearance  and 
scare  the  daylights  out  of  those  she  devils.  Why, 
do  you  know,  Captain,  I've  just  had  a  visit  from 
a  precious  pair  on  the  plea  of  enquiring  about  my 
health,  the  idiots." 

"Yes,  and  what's  more,  you've  received  a  visit 
from  one  you  would  hardly  stigmatize  with  an 
epithet  of  that  flavor.  But  I  say,  what  on  earth 
are  we  to  do?  And  now  to  be  plain  spoken,  I  am 
not  in  one  whit  better  plight  than  you,  for  to  at 
tempt  to  govern  a  lot  of  women — well,  the  best 
I  can  say  is,  Good  Lord  deliver  us. 

"The  fact  of  the  matter  is,  Josiah,  some  scheme 
has  got  to  be  contrived  whereby  to  escape  a  thral 
dom  worse  if  anything  than  death,  hence  this 
visit." 

"Your  hand  upon  it,  Captain,  and  'twill  go  hard 
if  we  do  not  accomplish  it,  for  I  can  assure  you 
I  am  in  like  mood,  and  will  do  all  I  can  to  further 
the  object,  for  to  be  freed  from  those  who  mani 
fest  so  little  gratitude  for  services  rendered  must 
certainly  redound  to  anyone's  credit." 

"But  I  say,"  interjects  the  Captain,  "have  you 
eaten  anything  this  evening?" 

"On  the  contrary,  not  a  morsel  of  food  nor  a 
drop  of  water  have  I  tasted  since  early  this  morn 
ing,  and  it  is  but  a  few  moments  only  since  my 
arms  were  relieved  of  these  fetters." 


248     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

"Ho,  there,  without,  fetch  food  and  drink  for 
this,  thy  captive  king,  nor  linger  long  in  the  fetch 
ing.  Dost  hoar? 

"You  see,  Josiah,  I  am  fulfilling  my  agreement 
with  your  rascally  persecutors,  and  before  they  get 
through  with  their  new  king  they  will  be  only  too 
willing  to  look  on  our  departure  with  a  pardonable 
amount  of  equanimity;  in  other  words,  a  more 
congenial  atmosphere,  take  knowledge  of  our  ad 
vent." 

Food  and  water  were  soon  forthcoming  and 
ravenously  eaten,  after  which  we  went  to  work 
concocting  some  scheme  whereby  to  checkmate  our 
captors  and  thus  effect  deliverance;  my  friend,  the 
Captain,  from  his  onerous  duties  as  pertaining  to 
royalty,  I  from  captivity,  perchance  death,  for, 
as  the  monarch  said: 

"I  have  overheard  mutterings  of  discontent 
wherein  you,  my  boy,  were  to  be  the  victim.  But 
by  all  saints  in  heaven  and  earth  we  will 
checkmate  them  yet;  yes.  'pon  my  word,  Josiah, 
we  will  bring  the  huzzies  to  grief,  the  tyrannical 
brood." 

"But  how?  That's  the  question,  for  you  must 
know  it  will  be  no  child's  play." 

"How  to  get  away  ?    By  boat,"  the* laconic  reply. 

"Yes,  but  don't  you  see,  every  avenue  of  escape 
is  closely  guarded,  so  I  am  of  the  opinion  I  have 
a  better  plan,  anyhow  safer.  This  people,  as  you 
are  aware,  are  mightily  taken  with  anything  that 
savors  of  invention,  therefore  should  I  say : 
'Friends,  I  have  of  late  become  acquainted  with  a 
method  whereby  the  air  can  be  safely  navigated.' 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     249 

Why,  Captain,  they  will  fall  in  with  the  notion 
without  questioning  or  hesitation. 

"Again,  I  will  say  to  the  leaders  of  the  town: 
'Believe  me  from  these  honds,  thus  affording  op 
portunity  to  carry  out  the  contemplated  scheme, 
likewise  lend  a  helping  hand.'  I  think  the  question 
of  escape  fully  answered." 

"But  in  what  does  this  grand  discovery  consist  ?" 
the  Captain  solicitously  enquires. 

"Nothing  more,  nothing  less  than  an  old- 
fashioned  balloon,  your  majesty.  Yes,"  I  continue, 
"let  us  construct  a  balloon,  attach  it  to  the  bow  of 
a  small  boat,  one  of  our  staunchest  craft,  as  pro 
pelling  power,  then  take  on  board,  surreptitiously, 
of  course,  blankets,  food,  arms,  ammunition,  etc., 
and  when  all  is  in  readiness,  under  pretence  of 
a  trial  trip,  cast  off,  standing  out  to  sea  until  such 
time  as  we  may  be  overhauled  by  some  homeward 
bound  craft,  when  we  will  transfer  to  her  deck 
airship,  luggage  and  all.  What  says  your  majesty 
to  the  scheme?" 

"Capital,  my  boy,  capital.  Indeed,  nothing  could 
be  better.  But  what  a  head  you  have !"  as  rising, 
the  overjoyed  sailor  grasps  the  hand  of  his  friend, 
vowing  "the  like  never  was  heard." 

The  foregoing  scheme  laid  before  the  authorities 
was,  with  little  ado  accepted  in  good  faith,  while 
as  to  myself  I  was  released  on  bail,  the  Captain 
going  on  my  bonds  (straw,  of  course),  until  at 
the  expiration  of  forty  and  five  days  a  thoroughly 
well-constructed  aerial  machine  swung  at  her  an 
chorage,  the  invention  hailed  with  joy  by  the  on 
lookers,  who,  it  is  safe  to  say,  little  suspected  the 


250     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

use  to  which  it  was  liable  to  be  put.  And  now 
methinks  I  hear  from  all  sides  the  pertinent  ques 
tion,  "How  was  it  possible,  under  such  adverse 
conditions  to  conduct  an  affair  of  such  magnitude  ?" 

In  explanation  I  have  it  to  say  that  tributary  to 
and  adjacent  to  the  unused  storehouse  where  I  had 
been  imprisoned,  was  an  annex,  in  dimension  some 
six  by  eight  feet,  where,  from  time  to  time,  all 
sorts  of  trumpery  had  been  laid  away,  these  largely 
accumulated  from  raids  on  foreign  shipping. 
Thinking  something  might  be  found  available  for 
present  requirements,  the  supposed  useless  rubbish 
was  overhauled,  resulting  in  discoveries  of  the 
utmost  importance  just  at  this  time,  for  here  was  a 
chest  of  old  rusty  irons,  broken  chains,  badly  used 
bolts,  a  bundle  of  files,  nearly  new ;  while,  looking 
a  little  farther  was  found  a  huge  brass-bound 
trunk,  which  on  opening,  was  found  to  consist  of 
several  bales  of  silks  and  satins. 

"Aha !"  cries  the  Captain,  "Tiere's  a  find  of  some 
account,  for  it's  just  what  we  most  need  for  the 
balloon." 

Underneath  a  huge  pile  of  drygoods  boxes  was  a 
demijohn  labeled  "Sulphuric  Acid." 

Work  on  the  balloon  commenced,  the  silks  were 
cut  in  proper  lengths,  seamstresses  sewed  the  long 
strips  together,  meanwhile  iron  filings  were  pre 
pared,  large  casks  turned  into  gas-holders,  and, 
when  all  was  in  readiness,  the  balloon  was  inflated 
and  time  set  for  carrying  the  experiment  to  com 
pletion,  and  while  all  this  is  being  done  the  boat 
is  decked  from  the  bow  back  to  near  the  center, 
ostensibly  as  a  platform  from  which  to  work  the 
unique  motor,  but  rea^y  as  a  shield  for  Hab-a-shaa 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     251 

•who,  it  is  expected,  will  be  a  passenger,  for  to  lef; 
the  poor  girl  remain  on  the  island  would  be  simply 
to  court  death,  for  the  Amazons,  finding  the  Cap 
tain  and  I  had  left,  would  rise  against  her,  venting 
on  her  head  the  wrath  naturally  belonging  to  us. 

The  day  and  hour  set  for  the  venture  saw  a 
large  concourse  of  eager  spectators  gathered  at  the 
wharf,  where  lay  the  craft  destined  to  convey  us 
seaward,  but  how  little  this  anxious  group  sus 
pected  the  innocent  source  of  all  their  troubles 
lay  quietly  ensconced  under  that  platform.  Never 
theless,  such  was  the  case,  for  Hab-a-sha  had  been 
the  night  before  secretly  conveyed  to  the  boat,  and 
was  now  serenely  reposing  on  blankets  specially 
provided  for  the  auspicious  event. 

Taking  station  at  the  bow,  where  I  could  easily 
direct  the  movements  of  the  balloon,  Captain  Light 
house  about  to  cast  off,  when  a  well-known  voice 
in  commanding  tones,  cries : 

"What  is  this  you  are  about  to  do  ?  Turn  back  ! 
I  command  it.  Loose  not  the  boat  on  pain  of  in 
stant  death  r 

It  now  for  the  first  time  dawned  on  my  mind 
that  the  Captain's  late  subjects  were  becoming 
awakened  to  the  fact  that  all  things  in  this  world 
are  not  as  they  seem.  In  other  words,  we  were 
about  to  take  final  leave,  hence  it  was  of  vital  im 
portance  that  immediate  steps  be  taken  looking  to 
the  frustration  of  our  well  laid  plans,  to  which 
end  command  was  given :  "Guards  to  the  front !" 
Then  half  a  score  muskets  were  pointed  in  our  di 
rection,  held  by  as  many  female  warriors,  who 
rapidly  advanced,  agreeable  to  order,  taking  station 
in  line  along  the  beach. 


252     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

"Captain  Lighthouse,  and  you,  renegade  Bar- 
tholemew,  once  more  we  command,  Turn  back,  else 
thy  blood  be  on  thine  own  head." 

Aha  !  Here's  another  turn  of  affairs  not  particu 
larly  creditable  to  a  pair  of  crowned  heads,  I  must 
confess,  nor  is  there  much  ground  for  arbitration — 
thoughts  passing  swift  review — so  taking  time  by 
the  forelock,  I  hand  to  the  Captain  a  sharp-bladed 
knife,  the  detaining  cable  is  severed;  the  balloon, 
catching  the  wind,  "rises  to  the  occasion,"  so  to 
speak,  and  before  tha  eager  soldiery  could  gather 
together  their  wits  sufficiently  to  secure  accurate 
aim  we  were  out  of  range. 

Swinging  my  cap  high  in  the  air  in  parting  salu 
tation,  I  at  the  same  time  raise  my  voice,  joyously 
shouting:  "Ye  blamed  idiots,  fire  and  be  hanged 
to  you !"  Yet  before  the  words  had  fairly  escaped 
my  lips  a  volley  rang  out  in  defiance,  the  balls 
flying  short  of  the  mark.  So  away  we  sped  till 
mid-afternoon,  when  it  was  estimated  not  less  than 
a  hundred  miles  had  been  made.  Meantime  my  fair 
companion,  released  from  her  confined  quarters, 
was  overjoyed  at  having  so  easily  evaded  her  ene 
mies,  the  thought  intensified  by  the  reflection  that 
from  this  time  on  she  was  to  be  under  my  sole 
protection;  hence,  as  a  matter  of  necessity,  as  was 
my  future,  so  would  be  hers,  and  she  could  hardly 
find  adequate  words  to  express  her  gratification  at 
the  eventful  turn  of  affairs.  There  was  but  little 
time  for  indulgence  in  sentiment,  however,  the 
craft,  under  pressure  of  aerial  sail,  bounding 
lightly  over  the  billows,  yet  requiring  my  utmost 
care  and  attention. 

Well  along  toward  sunset,  with  every  prospect 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT.     253 

of  remaining  aboard  the  little  craft  through,  the 
long  night,  I  was  somewhat  apprehensive  that 
trouble  might  yet  be  in  store,  but  one  thing  in 
our  favor,  the  wind  was  perceptibly  lessening.  Yet, 
as  an  offset,  the  sun  was  sinking  behind  a  bank  of 
ominous  appearing  clouds,  "as,"  said  the  Captain, 
"portending  a  storm,"  thereby  giving  rise  to  some 
uneasiness,  for  should  a  tempest  arise  and  we 
be  obliged  to  cut  loose  from  our  "aerial  steed"  our 
case  would  be  well-nigh  hopeless. 

Thus  indulging  in  serious  forebodings,  the 
chief's  daughter  coming  in  for  the  largest  share  of 
my  thoughts,  I  was  suddenly  startled  and  im 
measurably  gratified  upon  hearing  in  exalted  tones 
the  Captain's  voice — "Sail  ho !" 

"Where  away?"  in  true  sailor  fashion  I  reply. 

"Directly  at  our  front,  heading  this  way,"  the 
Captain  answers. 

Turning  in  the  direction  indicated  I  was  over 
joyed  on  beholding  a  large  ship  under  full  press 
of  canvas  coming  directly  toward  us.  Without 
the  least  hesitancy  I  throw  wide  open  the  balloon 
valve,  thus  allowing  free  escape  of  gas,  and  await 
the  outcome. 

'Twas  not  long  in  coming.  The  great  ship  "heav 
ing  to,"  a  boat  is  lowered,  and  before  we  hardly 
have  time  to  think  where  we  are  we  find  ourselves 
on  the  deck  of  the  strange  vessel  sorrounded  by 
an  eager,  enthusiastic  throng  of  sailors,  who,  on 
enquiry.,  furnish  us  the  gratifying,  though  remark 
able  piece  of  news,  perhaps  some  might  say  coin 
cidence,  that  this  was  a  British  frigate  on  return 
from  an  expedition  where  some  two  years  previous 
one  Captain  Jeremy  Lighthouse,  in  command  of 


254     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

the  "Andromeda/'  had  been  dispatched.  "But/' 
added  the  frigate's  commander,  "the  poor  man, 
along  with  one  of  the  finest  ships  of  the  British 
navy,  has  never  been  heard  from  since." 

Little  did  the  commander  of  the  "Bombastes"- 
the  vessel  appearing  at  this  time  in  interest  of  that 
same  Jeremy  Lighthouse  and  one  Josiah  Bartholo 
mew,  late  accredited  chief  of  a  female  community — 
realize  that  he  had  these  same  noted  personages 
as  guests  on  board  his  own  ship,  and  we  were 
careful  not  to  enlighten  him  on  the  subject;  none 
the  less  thankful,  however,  that  he  had  been  the 
means  of  preserving  us  from  a  fate  sure  to  have 
been  ours  had  not  he  or  some  other  good  Samaritan 
appeared  in  our  behalf.  Suffice  it  to  say,  that 
ninety  and  five  days  thereafter  saw  the  British 
man-of-war  swinging  at  anchor  in  the  Thames, 
Captain  Jeremy  Lighthouse,  in  the  role  of  honored 
guest,  installed  at  the  home  of  an  old  friend,  the 
daughter  of  the  late  chief  Tanawarga  in  comfort 
able  quarters  at  a  low-priced,  though  eminently 
respectable  hotel,  while  I,  Josiah  Bartholomew, 
engaged  in  making  report  of  the  long  succession  of 
adventures,  culminating  as  herewith  stated. 

Upon  finishing  my  report  to  the  "London  Times'' 
authorities,  who,  it  is  safe  to  say,  were  literally 
dumfounded,  vowing  'twas  the  most  marvellous 
tale  they  had  ever  before  listened  to,  Mr.  Waltars, 
the  principal  proprietor  of  that  world-wide  known 
sheet,  hinting  that  "it  was  but  a  stepping  stone 
to  my  future  greatness;  though,"  he  adds,  "I 
don't  see  how  it's  possible  for  one  to  be  greater 
than  when  lordinar  it  over  a  thousand  female  sub- 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     255 

jects,"  a  sentiment  in  which  I  privately  begged 
to  differ  with  him,  but  I  said  nothing. 

My  first  step  was  to  hunt  up  one  "Joe  Lindley, 
Lawyer/'  inasmuch  as  I  desired  to  consult  that 
worthy  gentleman  on  the  advisability  of  publishing 
•Colonel  Ashburton's  manuscript  in  connection  with 
the  adventures  wherein  I  played  so  conspicuous  a 
part.  However,  before  taking  this  step  I  thought 
as  a  matter  of  prudence  'twould  be  well  to  take  a 
look  at  the  ancient  remains  stored  in  a  certain 
warehouse  some  blocks  distant  from  my  present 
quarters.  So,  starting  out  on  the  praiseworthy 
expedition,  we  had  barely  gotten  under  way  when 
there  came  to  our  startled  ears  the  clangor  of 
fire  bells  announcing  a  conflagration.  But  where? 

"The  great  warehouse  near  the  London  Com 
pany's  docks." 

The  identical  building  where  repose  the  remains 
of  the  "First  Born" ! 

Alas !  I  find  the  startling  and  fatal  report  veri 
fied,  for  upon  reaching  the  spot  the  great  building 
is  one  mass  of  seething  flames.  Thus,  our  last 
hope  fled,  nothing  remaining  to  give  color  to  my 
story  save  the  oft  quoted,  long  cherished  manu 
script,  to  which,  according  to  promise,  I  have  faith 
fully,  persistently  clung,  my  varying  fortunes  in 
no  whit  lessening  my  regard  for  its  more  than. 
sacred  pages,  and  which,  as  before  said,  was  des 
tined  some  time  to  set  the  world  "all  agog."  And 
now  in  conclusion  of  this  part  of  my  story  I  will 
briefly  say  that  publication  begun,  the  two  expedi 
tions  in  one  volume  will  soon  be  in  the  hands  of  a 
generous  public. 


256     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 


PART  THIRD. 
CHAPTER  XLV. 

AFTER   THREE  YEARS. 

THREE  years  have  glided  swiftly  by,  and  save 
for  the  published  manuscript,  as  promised,  and  as 
previously  announced,  had  set  the  world  "all  agog," 
the  remarkable  incidents  therein  recorded — now 
little  more  than  a  memory — nothing  has  been  heard 
concerning  it  only  that  expeditions  having  a  like 
object  in  view  have  from  time  to  time  been  set 
on  foot,  the  originators  laboring  under  the  impres 
sion  that  farther  and  more  extended  search  might 
possibly  reveal  the  names  of  no  less  importance 
than  those  that  went  down  on  the  "Andromeda" 
that  ill-fated  morning,  along  with  their  exhumer, 
Colonel  Henry  Ashburton,  of  whom  I  alone  of  the 
whole  ship's  company  was  saved. 

During  the  past  three  years  my  labors  had  not 
only  been  manifold,  but  unusually  severe,  from 
the  fact  that  along  with  the  ordinary  duties  per 
taining  to  a  correspondent  and  reporter  of  a  great 
London  daily,  I  had  been  sent  to  America  to  re 
port  doings  on  the  several  battlefields,  thus  keep 
ing  my  paper  en  rapport  with  the  reading  public 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     25? 

relative  to  the  internecine  strife  then  being  waged 
in  that  far-off  republic.  Thus  remaining  for  a  year 
or  more  sometimes  in  camp,  at  others  on  the  field 
of  battle,,  I  was  an  interested  spectator  to  a  num 
ber  of  engagements,  many  of  a  sanguinary  char 
acter.  Up  to  this  time  no  one  was  wise  enough, 
to  foretell  the  outcome,  for  both  sides  were  equally 
sanguine  of  success,  but  from  what  I  could  gather, 
both  from  observation  and  hearsay,  the  South  must 
inevitably  succumb. 

I  was  fortunate,  or  unfortunate,  enough  to  be 
a  writer  of  the  battle  of  Gettysburg,  and  I  would 
here  add  that  a  full  account  of  this  battle  was 
published  in  the  "London  Times/'  through  no  act 
of  my  own,  however,  for  seeking  an  injudicious 
position  in  the  rear  of  Pickett's  charging  column,  I 
was  suddenly — and  as  is  usual  in  such  cases — with 
out  warning  stricken  down  by  a  chance  shot.  Thus 
I  lay,  unconscious  to  all  earthly,  and  I  might  add, 
heavenly  things,  until  finally  my  mentality  came  to 
me  under  conditions  that  may  perchance  tax  the 
credulity  of  my  readers,  fully  as  much  as  my  own, 
for  I  can  assure  all  who  read  this  story  that  I  am 
as  much  in  the  dark  as  they  possibly  can  be. 


258     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 


CHAPTER  XLVI. 

I    XEARLY    LOSE    MY    SENTSES. 

"WHO,  what  and  where  am  I?"  Thoughts  up 
permost  in  my  mind  when  regaining  consciousness 
from  the  long  night  of  sleep,  the  last  remembrance 
of  which  occurred  on  the  bloody  field  where  I  was 
stricken  down  by  a  Union  bullet,  though,  of  course, 
unintentional.  Surely  this  is  not  where  I  fell? 
for  there  I  was  surrounded  by  armed  hosts,  all 
around  dead,  dying  and  wounded  heroes,  the  for 
mer  pressing  on  to  victory  or  death,  the  air  bur 
dened  with  the  roar  of  artillery,  eager  shouts  of 
combatants  filling  the  gaps  between  shots,  while 
here  all  is  peace,  quiet,  apparently  contentment. 

Verily  I  am  in  a  quandary.  But  who  is  that 
strange  appearing  person  at  yonder  table?  His 
eyes  rest  on  me,  while  his  face  has  a  familiar  look ; 
his  garb  is  of  an  elegance  I've  never  seen  equalled. 
Then,  too,  his  surroundings !  Surely  some  fairy 
must  have  waved  her  wand  lovingly  over  his  head 
to  have  produced  this  scene  of  enchantment — this 
apartment  one  hundred  and  fifty  feet  in  length, 
if  I  am  any  judge  of  distances,  the  walls  of  stucco 
forty  or  more  feet  in  height,  fairly  glittering  with 
gems,  floors  of  the  purest  white  marble  inlaid  with 
gold,  windows,  three  on  either  side,  of  a  single 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     259 

plate  fifteen  feet  wide  by  thirty  in  length,  while 
from  the  lofty  ceiling  depend  chandeliers  twelve 
in  number  of  richly  chased  gold,  each  of  a  different 
pattern  and  beauteous  beyond  anything  my  fancy 
has  ever  pictured.  The  couch  whereon  1  recline 
is  made  of  the  choicest  of  woods  brilliantly  polished, 
upholstered  with  rich  damask :  the  coverings  over 
me  of  spun  wool. 

A  little  time  spent  in  scanning  the  various  ob 
jects  wherewith  I  am  surrounded,  I  again,  not  only 
in  thought,  but  uplifted  voice,  repeat  the  expres 
sion  originally  propounded,  viz. :  "Who,  what  and 
where  am  1  ?" 

Upon  this  stirring  appeal  the  occupant  of  the 
chair  rises,  and  keeps  on  rising,  until  to  my  un 
bounded  astonishment  he  attains  the  enormous 
stature  of  quite  fifteen  feet.  Whereupon  I  again 
lift  up  my  voice  in  supplication,  rather  than  as 
before,  in  entreaty:  "Good  friend,  if  it  so  please 
thee,  sit  down,  for  I  am  truly  overwhelmed  in 
contemplation  of  thy  wondrous  height/' 

"Josiah  Bartholomew,"  said  the  voice  emanating 
from  the  capacious  chest  of  the  strange  being,  "look 
to  thyself,  then,  if  thou  canst,  estimate  the  differ 
ence  between  thy  stature  and  mine." 

It  now  began  to  dawn  on  my  mind  that  some 
how  I  had  changed,  though  just  how  it  was  im 
possible  to  tell,  but  taking  a  downward  glance  I 
found  my  nether  extremities  were  taking  on  in 
ordinate  proportions,  so,  instead  of  repeating  the 
question  in  full,  I  cut  it  short  by  the  pertinent 
enquiry:  "Who  am  "I?" 

"Before  answering  I  will  ask  another,  to  wit: 
Dost  know  who  I  am?" 


260     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

This  from  the  stranger. 

Instead  of  replying  I  study  his  features,  hearken 
to  his  voice,  take  note  of  his  countenance.  Ha! 
my  eyes  are  opened,  on  the  instant  a  thought  strikes 
me.  Aye,  both  strikes  and  startles  me,  for  in 
this  strange,  unearthly  being,  I  discern  none  other 
than  the  "Old  Hermit  of  the  Mountain."  "God 
be  praised !"  was  at  my  tongue's  end,  for  I  had 
begun  to  fear  all  that  I  saw  and  heard  was  simply 
the  vagaries  of  dreamland,  else  the  offshoot  of  a 
diseased  imagination,  also  that  it  might  be  possible 
that  I  would  once  more  find  myself  victim  of  the 
Gettysburg  battlefield. 

Said  I,  leaving  out  the  question  first  propounded 
and  from  which  I  have  received  no  satisfactory 
answer,  "Would  it  not  be  more  to  the  purpose  to 
proceed  at  once  to  the  city  of  London,  thence  to 
the  Times  office,  and  make  report,  for  I  am  sure 
Mr.  Waltars  will  be  anxiously  awaiting  news  of  the 
last  great  battle,  that  is  to  say,  up  to  the  time  I 
fell  while  cheering  on  the  troops  in  that  last  grand 
charge  of  General  Pickett," 

Still  questioning,  I  ask  about  how  long  it's  been 
since  I  was  picked  up  and  borne  from  the  field, 
for  I  am  positive  it  must  have  been  quite  a  little 
time  since,  inasmuch  as  I  feel  no  soreness  from 
the  wound. 

Upon  hearing  this  startling  news  my  Hermit 
friend  gave  vent  to  a  series  of  audible  chuckles, 
then  in  soberness  said:  "Aye,  how  long,  indeed? 
Why,  Josiah  Bartholomew,  you  would  have  me  to 
understand  that  your  Mr.  Waltars  is  anxiously 
awaiting  your  return  to  give  report  of  the  battle 
of  Gettysburg,  but  know  this,  so  long  has  Mr, 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     261 

Wai  tars  lain  in  his  grave  that  were  you  to  un 
earth  his  remains,  if  so  fortunate  as  to  find  the 
locality,  not  a  shred  of  bone,  tissue  or  muscle 
would  you  find.  'From  the  dust  thou  art,  and  to 
the  dust  thou  shalt  return'  is  a  truthful  message 
never  more  conspicuously  displayed  than  in  the 
case  of  Mr.  Waltars — fulfilled  only  after  the  lapse 
of  centuries,  maybe,  therefore  in  some  small  meas 
ure  will  you  be  able  to  gauge  the  lapse  of  time, 
since  the  well-known  man  and  editor  was  carried 
to  his  last  earthly  resting  place." 

"How  about  the  'Times'?"  I  still  question. 
"Maybe  there  are  others  connected  with  that  world 
wide  journal  who  would  be  pleased  to  have  re 
port?" 

"Obtuse  man,  canst  not  yet  comprehend  my  say 
ings?  Canst  not  yet  realize  that  ages  have  rolled 
over  the  head  of  the  late  editor-in-chief,  the  fate  of 
his  journal  and  worthy  assistants  alike  shared;  but 
to  no  longer  keep  thee  in  suspense  I  will  make  clean 
breast  of  the  whole  affair." 

A  few  moments'  reflection  and  the  Old  Hermit 
again  speaks:  "At  the  time  farewells  were  spoken 
at  the  mountain  cavern  you  will  doubtless  remem 
ber,  Josiah,  that  I  said:  'Josiah,  you  will  never 
set  eyes  on  me  again,  unless  my  services  are  re 
quired  to  extricate  thee  from  peril,  in  which  event 
I  will  come  to  thee.' 

"I  followed  thee,  indeed  was  with  thee  through 
all  thy  journeyings,  even  to  the  battlefield  where 
thou  wert  stricken  with  the  fatal  bullet,  when  I 
took  charge  of,  and  had  you  conveyed  to  this  great 
central  planet,  where  you  have  remained  uncon 
scious  until  this  morning,  but  thinking  the  hour 


2G2     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

propitious  for  bringing  you  back  to  life,  I  have 
taken  that  important  step — the  lengthy  period  of 
five  centuries  intervening — whence  it  hath  been  a 
matter  of  speculation  as  to  how  your  Mr.  Waltars 
has  regarded  your  conduct  in  leaving  your  post  of 
duty  without  permission  from  that  noted  gentle 
man,  so,  taking  it  all  in  all,  you  have  thought  to 
question  the  advisability  of  immediately  report 
ing  to  the  Times  office,  thus  setting  matters  to 
rights,  and  by  the  same  chain  of  reasoning,  you 
would  enquire  about  the  great  capital  city  of  Lon 
don,  at  that  epoch  in  the  world's  history  the  most 
important  and  populous  city  on  the  face  of  the 
globe. 

"Know,  then,  that  in  so  far  as  regards  the 
former,  I  have  already  told  you;  and  as  to  the  lat 
ter,  I  have  to  inform  you  that  the  oncewhile  world's 
emporium  is  naught  but  a  desert  waste,  given  over 
to  the  Owl  that  flieth  at  night  time,  and  the  Fox 
that  diggeth  his  hole  by  day. 

"  'How  did  all  this  come  about  ?'  you  ask  ?  Well, 
in  this  way :  A  half  centur}r  subsequent  to  the  great 
rebellion  in  America,  the  outlying  province  of 
Canada,  it  seems,  had  made  secret  overtures  looking 
to  annexation  to  the  reconstructed  States — never 
so  prosperous  as  at  this  particular  time.  Meantime 
the  mother  country,  getting  wind  of  the  affair  and 
wishing  to  put  a  stop  to  the  unlawful  proceedings, 
dispatched  an  immense  fleet,  thus  throwing  down 
the  gauge  of  battle  in  order  to  compel  that  nation 
to  desist  attempt  to  secure  possessions  to  which  they 
had  no  right,  legal  or  otherwise,  the  mother  country 
taking  the  ground  that  a  child  cannot  legally  give 
itself  away  without  consent  of  the  parent;  so,  in 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     263 

order  to  cope  successfully  with  her  powerful  an 
tagonist,  Great  Britain  was  compelled  to  call  home 
a  large  part  of  her  East  India  troops,  both  land  and 
naval  forces.  Crossing  the  seas  a  considerable  por 
tion  of  the  fleet  rendezvoused  at  a  convenient  point 
of  the  disputed  territory,  landing  several  thousand 
soldiers,  the  major  portion  proceeding  to  cities  lying 
on  or  near  the  coast. 

"Due  preparations  were  made,  and  these  cities 
were  bombarded,  particularly  that  commercial  em 
porium  at  the  confluence  of  the  East  and  North 
rivers,  resulting  in  that  great  city  being  razed  to 
the  ground,  hardly  one  stone  left  on  another. 

"At  this  critical  period  in  her  history,  fearing 
the  fray  would  ultimately  terminate  in  favor  of 
her  opponent,  the  American  Government  called  on 
her  powerful  ally,  Eussia,  in  conjunction  with  that 
no  less  powerful  France,  and  as  both  had  grievances 
to  adjust,  they  gladly  lent  aid,  so  that  Great  Britain 
was  finally  crushed,  her  immense  fleets,  together 
with  the  largest  army  ever  before  congregated  under 
one  head,  compelled  to  surrender  to  a  foe  she  had 
journeyed  so  great  a  distance  to  attack.  Meanwhile 
the  socialist  element — that  is  to  say,  the  laboring 
classes,  who  on  supposition  they  also  had  grievances 
to  redress  and  believing  the  time  had  come  to  put 
forth  their  claims,  banded  together,  rising  up  in 
a  night,  and,  as  all  the  forces  England  could  readily 
muster  were  already  in  the  field,  little  difficulty 
was  experienced  in  carrying  out  their  well  laid 
plans. 

"So  we  find,  as  a  culmination  of  their  efforts,  the 
great  city  of  London — with  its  half  score  million 
people — sacked,  its  stout  walls  hurled  to  the  ground, 


264     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

until  it  was  truthfully  said,  'There  was  not  one 
stone  left  upon  another.' 

"Inasmuch  as  success  attended  their  efforts  in 
the  first  bout,  they  tried  a  second,  resulting  in  the 
whole  of  Great  Britain  being  overrun,  her  fields 
laid  waste,  her  royal  palaces  destroyed,  and  what 
soever  bore  the  least  taint  of  aristocracy. 

"The  war  at  an  end,  affairs  amicably  adjusted, 
the  naval  fleets,  together  with  transports,  loaded 
with  the  beaten  soldiery,  set  out  on  their  return 
home,  little  suspecting  their  absence  had  resulted 
so  disastrously  to  the  great  English  nation — because 
communication,  for  political  purposes,  had  in  the 
interim  been  wholly  cut  off — this  made  little  differ 
ence,  however,  for  no  more  than  one-half  the  dis 
tance  overcome,  when  a  furious  storm  arose,  the 
tempest  raging  with  the  utmost  intensity,  until  at 
length,  fleets,  transports,  warriors  and  all  that  con 
stitutes  a  grand  army,  were  overwhelmed,  and  swept 
to  oblivion. 

"From  the  success  attending  their  efforts,  the 
people  everywhere  united,  overrunning  the  various 
countries.  Thus  kingdoms,  monarchies  and  princi 
palities  came  to  a  speedy  end,  while  the  so-called 
'aristocracy'  was  swept  as  with  the  besom  of  de 
struction  from  off  the  face  of  the  earth. 

"A  period  of  unexampled  prosperity  now  set  in — 
but  whether  of  progress  was  to  be  determined  later 
on.  Republican  forms  of  government  were  now 
the  rule,  thus  the  people  on  a  level,  and  so  it  was 
proposed  they  should  remain.  In  the  instance  of 
Xorth  America,  the  area,  through  annexation 
nearly  or  quite  doubled,  the  several  peoples  com 
prised  within  that  immense  territory  seemed  about 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     265 

to  enter  on  an  era  of  prosperity,  thereby  placing 
them  at  the  head  of  all  the  nations  of  the  world. 

"The  mutations  of  time,  century  after  century 
of  improvement  in  all  directions,  keeping  even  pace, 
until  at  length  the  vast  domain  becomes  the  pivotal 
center  around  which  revolves  the  interests  of  the 
entire  globe,  the  emporium,  heretofore  spoken  of  as 
lying  at  the  confluence  of  the  East  and  North  riv 
ers,  has  now  become  a  world's  capital,  with  a  popu 
lation  estimated  at  not  less  than  twenty  and  five 
millions,  within  whose  territory  is  comprised  more 
than  one  thousand  square  miles,  reaching  to  the 
north,  the  headwaters  of  the  North  river,  the  shores 
lined  with  palatial  residences,  the  architecture  of 
an  excellence  unknown  to  the  more  ancient  days, 
that  is  to  say,  along  toward  the  nineteenth  and 
twentieth  centuries — while  many  towns  and  cities 
are  more  densely  populated  than  was  the  city  of 
which  I  speak,  at  that  time. 

"Another,  second  only  in  importance,  was  a  city 
founded  in  the  nineteenth  century,  situated  at  the 
head  of  an  important  chain  of  lakes,  formerly 
known  'as  the  city  of  Chicago/  now  'the  great  west 
ern  metropolis,'  with  a  population  numbering  in  the 
aggregate  more  than  fifteen  million  souls. 

"The  third  city  in  importance,  founded  at  a  still 
later  date,  located  at  what  was  once  known  as  'St. 
Anthony  Falls,'  at  that  time  the  head  of  navigation 
on  the  largest  river  of  the  continent,  the  Mississippi, 
and  destined  at  no  distant  day  to  overshadow  all 
others,  because  of  its  immense  agricultural,  com 
mercial  and  other  resources.  Bartholomew,  I 
will  not  conceal  from  you  the  fact  that  on  a  late 
visit  to  that  part  of  the  globe  I  was  most  favorably 


2G6     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT. 

impressed,  indeed,,  I  think  I  have  never  known  a 
city  of  such  unlimited  resources,  nor  one  of  more 
magnificent  possibilities,  for  here  is  one  of  the 
youngest  cities  on  the  continent,  within  whose  ex 
treme  limits  are  embraced  more  than  a  thousand 
leagues. 

"But,  Josiah,  if  there  have  been  such  radical 
changes  in  business  affairs,  what  shall  we  say  of 
those  pertaining  to  governmental  functions?  To 
wit,  when  you  were  a  sojourner  on  earth's  domain, 
the  President  of  the  United  States  was  chosen, 
from,  and  by  the  people,  regardless  of  caste,  wealth 
or  social  prestige,  hence,  we  find  that  exalted  per 
sonage  down  to  the  most  insignificant  incumbents 
of  office,  drew  together  such  a  vast  horde  of  office 
seekers  in  connection  with  those  desirous  of  political 
preferment  that  the  common  people 'were  so  over 
burdened  with  taxation  as  to  make  it  a  difficult  mat 
ter  to  make  both  ends  meet,  and  this  we  find  the 
case  whether  the  government  be  monarchical,  demo 
cratic  or  republican,  but  thanks  to  the  law  of  pro 
gression,  the  nations  of  the  earth,  one  generation 
after  another,  have  in  good  measure  cast  off  these 
barnacles  heretofore  clinging  to  the  ship  of  state — 
for  'statehood'  is  but  another  name  for  unwar 
ranted,  or  rather,  unnecessary  expenditures  of  the 
public  moneys." 

"But  how,"  I  unceremoniously  break  in,  "is  it 
possible  to  carry  on  a  government  where  there  are 
so  many  diverse  interests,  and  such  an  immense  ter 
ritory,  on  supposition,  the  states  are  all  thrown  into 
one  ?'" 

"The  simplest  thing  imaginable,  Josiah,  for  now 
the  people  are  the  government  in  reality,  as  they 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     267 

were  once  in  theory,  only,  therefore,  a  yearly  con 
vention  is  held  at  some  central  point — presumably 
Triniapolis — which,  since  the  annexation  of  the 
Canadas,  has  become  the  geographical  center  of 
the  continent — the  convention  composed  of  dele 
gates  chosen  directly  from  and  of  the  people." 

"Yes,  but,"  I  again  interrupt,  "what  can  be 
gained  by  this  singular  departure  from  ancient 
traditions  ?" 

"Much,  because  under  this  form  of  government 
fewer  laws  are  needed,  so  in  like  manner  are  there 
a  less  number  to  be  enforced,  farthermore,  a  law 
once  entered  on  the  statute  books  must  forever  there 
remain,  unless  some  good  reason  why  it  should  be 
expunged.  Whereas,  under  the  old  system,  it  was 
a  common  thing  for  a  law  to  be  enacted  one  session, 
only  to  be  repealed  the  next,  but  this  is  now  all  done 
away  with,  so  there  is  no  need  for  state  legislatures, 
and  much  else  useless  governmental  machinery." 

"But  why,"  I  again  ask,  "is  there  less  require 
ment  for  the  enactment  of  laws  than  before  ?" 

"Because  the  masses  educated  up  to  a  higher 
standard,  generation  after  generation,  of  enlighten 
ment,  leading  up  to  a  knowledge  of  'good  and 
evil,'  holding  fast  to  the  one,  and  eschewing  the 
other,  hence  it  is  seldom  crimes  of  special  magni 
tude  are  known,  so,  you  see,  if  one  generation  ar 
rives  to  a  higher  state  of  perfection  than  the  one 
preceding,  logically  the  succeeding  one  would  come 
up  to  a  still  higher  standard,  until,  in  the  end,  to 
do  a  wrong  would  be  so  obnoxious  to  the  well  regu 
lated  mind  as  to  tempt  one  to  go  hang  himself 
rather  than  to  face  such  an  accusation. 

"It  will  thus  be  readily  seen  that  the  so-called 


268     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

'learned  professions'  have  received,  through,  adop 
tion  of  the  aforesaid  measures,  a  shock  from  which 
it  will  be  many  a  long  day  before  they  recover.  The 
lesser  lights,  sheriffs,  constables,  detectives,  jurors — 
barnacles  sapping  the  very  life  blood  of  any  nation 
or  people — are  left  to  shift  for  themselves,  so,  in 
stead  of  destroying,  are  building  up.  In  fact,  a 
sweeping  change  has  been  effected  through  the  body 
politic,  so  that  now  everybody  may  be  considered 
happy. 

"So,  too,  in  the  higher  branches  of  office,  mem 
bers  of  Congress,  Supreme  and  district  court 
judges,  down  to  the  justice  of  the  peace — whose 
functions  are  mainly  settling  disputes — still,  on 
supposition,  there  are  none  to  settle,  no  Smith 
versus  Jones,  to  disfigure  the  book  of  record.  I 
gladly  hold  up  both  hands  in  one  long,  lingering 
shout,  'Amen !' 

"Again  take  the  practice — rather,  malpractice — 
of  medicine,  and  herewith  I  hold  it  a  self-evident 
truth,  that  in  the  absence  of  a  large  part  of  the 
doctors,  there  would  be  so  little  need  of  their  serv 
ices,  the  world,  coming  to  its  senses,  would  be  in 
a  state  of  wonderment  as  to  why  this  particular 
class  of  barnacles  should  have  been  so  long  tolerated, 
and  of  whom  the  world  is  well  rid.  Why?  you 
ask.  Because  the  laws  of  health  are  better  known, 
people  do  not  gorge  their  stomachs  simply  for  the 
gratification  of  the  palate,  nor  indulge  in  the  use 
of  intoxicating  liquors  for  the  sake  of  destroying 
the  intellect,  because  urged  upon  them  by  disin 
terested  parties. 

"Josiah,  I  now  come  to  the  last  of  the  learned 
professions,  the  clergy;  yet,  were  the  several  sys- 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     269 

terns  of  theology,  as  taught,  put  in  practice — there 
might  be  some  excuse  for  the  preacher." 

Upon  this  avowal  from  one  I  had  ever  consid 
ered  a  staunch  friend,  and  to  whom  I  was  still  in 
clined  to  look  upon  as  such — but,  from  this  whole 
sale  denunciation  of  a  class  I  had  at  all  times  con 
sidered,  of  all  earth's  benefactors,  the  most  useful, 
they,  who  from  my  youth  up,  I  had  been  taught 
to  reverence,  I  rose  up  in  my  wrath,  accusing  the 
Old  Hermit  of  being  a  rank  impostor,  saying  that 
I  could  now  comprehend  why  I  had  been  so  long 
a  creature  of  circumstances,  and  so  cruelly  imposed 
upon. 

In  his  customary,  gentle  manner,  he  immedi 
ately  returned:  "Resume  your  seat,  my  friend,  yet 
understand,  I  make  no  heedless  nor  unwise  asser 
tion,  nay,  nor  unprovable  statement.  On  the  con 
trary,  I  simply  proclaim  the  truth,  when  saying 
the  so-called  clergy  are  simply  barnacles,  teaching 
things  they  know  not  of,  and  so  at  this,  the  twenty- 
fifth  century  A.  D.,  the  world  has  reached  a  point 
where  it  is  considered  unnecessary  to  the  religious, 
rather  preferring  to  give  employment  to  secular 
teachers. 

"Do  I  deny  a  future?  Nay.  Else  could  you 
have  come  hither?  For  if,  when  stricken  down  on 
the  field  of  Gettysburg,  five  long  centuries  since, 
there  were  no  future,  you  would  long  ago  have 
'slept  the  long  sleep  that  knows  no  waking/  in 
stead  of  putting  on  immortality,  and  advanced  to 
this  central  sphere,  the  culmination  of  spirit  exist 
ence.  Do  I  believe  in  a  future?  Aye,  indeed,  a 
future  so  glorious,  so  far  removed  from  the  high 
ways  of  bigotry,  accepted  by  those  who  expect  to 


270     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

\ving  their  way  upborne  by  priestly  chariot,  to 
celestial  realms,  but  whereto  they  comprehend  not, 
preferring  unfounded,  wholly  unproved  statements 
rather  than  take  the  trouble  to  search  for  them 
selves  a  light  that  illumines  with  noon-tide  radi 
ance,  thus  lost  to  a  happiness  all  have  it  in  their 
power  to  acquire. 

"Enlightenment,  the  watchword  of  the  present, 
aided  by  its  handmaid,  progress  is  fast  sifting  the 
wheat  from  the  chaff,  and  earth's  dwellers  hasten 
ing  toward  a  belief  that  lifts  them  above  the  narrow 
range  of  mortal  affairs,  meantime  presents  to  their 
gaze  an  immortality  that  never  fades  nor  grows 
dim,  approached  not  through  churchly  dogmas  and 
worn-out  creeds,  for  all  these,  having  had  their  day, 
are  relegated  to  oblivion,  and  so  a  new  and  brighter 
era  has  been  inaugurated.  Thus  knowledge  de 
rived  from  a  being,  capable  of  creating,  and  willing 
to  maintain  powers  having  origin  from  this  domi 
nating  central  orb,  thence  transmitted  to  other 
spheres,  there  to  be  put  in  force  by  their  respective 
rulers,  and  here  is  where  earth's  dwellers  have  made 
a  serious  mistake,  in  conceiving  this  diminutive 
sphere  to  be  the  dominating  orbit,  and  to  which 
all  others  are  subservient. 

"Josiah  Bartholomew,  it  will  henceforth  be  thy 
mission  to  undeceive  those  in  error,  and  'tis  for 
this  thou  wert  transferred  hither.  I  the  one  de 
tailed  for  that  special  purpose,  thou  the  only  one 
of  earth's  mortals  as  yet  permitted  to  look  upon 
and  tread  these  Elysian  shores. 

"I  will  now  speak  more  at  length  about  earth's 
doings,  afterward  of  those  pertaining  to  thy  future, 
to  wit:  During  the  past  five  centuries  the  people 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     271 

of  the  western  hemisphere  becoming  united,  may 
be  considered  of  one  race,  who,  inaugurating,  are 
capable  of  maintaining  a  more  lofty  standard  rela 
tive  to  every  relation  in  life,  and  as  under  the 
ancient  regime,  there  was  but  little  system,  one  class 
warring  against  another,  the  weaker  succumbing 
to  the  stronger,  hence,  there  was  one  continual 
scene  of  turmoil  and  strife,  the  world  the  whole 
time  growing  worse  rather  than  better,  one  after  an 
other  putting  himself  at  the  head  of  a  faction,  pro 
claiming  himself  a  veritable  Moses,  liberating  the 
overtaxed  slave  from  the  heavy  hand  of  the  master, 
in  the  end  only  to  fall  back  to  the  rear  of  the 
column,  faint-hearted  and  broken. 

"At  this  juncture  the  masses  of  the  people  hav 
ing  arrived  at  an  understanding  as  to  the  require 
ments  of  nature's  laws,  as  originally  promulgated, 
rose  up  as  one  man.  Binding  themselves  together 
in  self-interest,  they  cast  down  altars  built  to 
supplant  the  many  in  interest  of  the  few.  The  first 
onset  proving  an  unqualified  success,  they  attack 
and  utterly  destroy  the  government  buildings.  The 
officials  in  charge  scattered  like  leaves  before  the 
gale.  So,  they  who  by  successive  generations  filled 
their  coffers  with  gold  wrung  from  the  brows  of 
those  who  sweat  in  behalf  of  the  laboring  classes, 
eventually  compelled  to  disgorge  their  ill  gotten 
plunder,  the  accumulated  wealth  distributed  pro 
rata,  the  title  to  landed  estates  guaranteed  by  those 
who  had  no  real  equity  in  the  premises. 

"Thus  the  source  of  evils  dried  up,  crime  came 
to  a  standstill,  churches,  where  once  the  people 
gathered  to  worship  the  one  God,  were  now  school 


272     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

houses.  The  teachers,  imbued  with  due  sense  of  the 
responsibilities  attendant  on  their  high  vocation, 
were  thus  paramount  for  good,  and  so  all  things 
adjusted  to  the  universal  satisfaction." 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     273 


CHAPTER  XLVIL 

BREAKFAST. 

JUBAL  now  takes  his  departure,  and  I  am  left 
alone.  Alone?  Nay,  for  it  is  but  a  few  minutes 
when  I  am  greeted  by  sounds  both  pleasing  and 
gratifying,  for  echoing  through  corridors  of  the 
great  building,  is  heard  the  clangor  of  bells,  fol 
lowed  by  entrance  of  a  retinue  of  servants  headed 
by  a  remarkable  personage,  clad  in  robes  of  satin 
trimmed  with  purple  velvet,  altogether  a  generous 
outfit  for  one  in  the  position  I  take  it  he  fills,  viz., 
butler,  or  head  waiter,  who  advances  and  orders 
his  assistants  to  deposit  on  the  table  what  appears 
to  be  my  breakfast,  and  as  my  fast  has  extended 
over  a  period  of  five  long  centuries,  I  am  naturally 
rejoiced  that  I  am  again  to  have  something  to  eat. 
Taking  station  round  a  mahogany  table,  the  signal 
is  given,  when  several  trays  are  arranged  in  symmet 
rical  order,  each  containing  several  sorts  of  fish, 
flesh  and  fowl,  likewise  fruits,  both  luscious  and 
rare. 

A  second  signal,  and  the  tray  bearers  depart  the 
way  they  came,  and  I  to  all  appearance  to  be  waited 
on  by  the  aforesaid  remarkable  personage  of  flow 
ing  beard,  and  a  bearing  a  king  might  envy,  while 
the  table  service  was  of  a  magnificence  rarely 
equalled,  plates  of  the  purest  china,  napkins  of  the 


274     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

finest  linen,  fringed  with  lace,  urns  and  the  service 
of  silver  chased  in  allegorical  emblems,  peculiar, 
as  I  judged,  to  paradisical  regions.  One  peculiar 
ity  in  striking  contrast  to  those  in  servitude,  was 
lack  of  speech,  for  from  the  instant  of  being  awak 
ened  to  the  present,  not  a  word  had  been  spoken, 
save  by  my  ghostly  interlocutor,  so  I  came  to  the 
conclusion  I  was  being  waited  upon  by  mutes, 
though,  as  I  judged,  by  no  means  deaf. 

In  this,  however,  I  was  soon  to  be  undeceived, 
for  on  the  retiring  of  the  servants,  whom  I  heard 
talking  without,  the  butler  belabored  my  ears  with 
a  language  I  could  no  more  understand  than  so 
much  Eskimo,  that  I  was  on  the  point  of  crying 
"Quits,"  meantime,  indulging  the  fear  that,  after 
all,  my  hunger  was  to  go  unappeased,  notwithstand 
ing  the  elaborate  feast  provided  for  my  especial 
benefit ;  yet,  what  astonished  me  more  than  all 
else  lay  in  the  fact  that  in  the  butler's  case  words 
now  were  spoken  in  good,  honest  Anglo-Saxon — 
my  mother  tongue — whence  I  was  led  to  the  con 
viction,  as  I  had  often  heard  said,  'The  sun  never 
sets  on  British  possessions/  and  certainly  there 
could  be  no  better  exemplification  of  that  fact  than 
was  now  presented. 

Breakfast  finished,  with  a  wave  of  the  hand 
Jubal  dismissed  the  servants.  Evidently,  having 
some  weighty  subject  on  his  mind,  I  urged  Jubal 
to  disclose  whatsoever  might  be  troubling  him. 

"Josiah !"  he  answers,  "actual  war  is  impending. 
I  find  an  outlying  province,  some  twenty-five  thou 
sand  miles  distant,  has  from  some  cause  or  other 
become  dissatisfied  with  the  present  state  of  affairs, 
BO  have  sent  word  to  the  general  government,  that, 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     2?5 

unless  things  are  more  to  their  liking,  war  will  be 
resorted  to.  Of  course,  a  menace  of  this  kind  can 
not  be  overlooked  nor  condoned,  hence  the  prepara 
tions  by  the  government  for  actual  war." 

"But  what  has  the  province  you  name  to  find 
fault  with  ?"  I  questioned. 

"Nothing  more,  nor  less,  than  the  right  of  self- 
government,  a  demand  similar  to  one  made  by  an 
other  faction  some  five  hundred  years  ago,  and  in 
which  you  had  the  honor  of  taking  part,  thereby 
sacrificing  your  earthly  life,"  replies  Jubal. 

"So  the  government  is  taking  measures  to  sup 
press  the  rebellion  ?"  I  answer. 

"Yes,  but  whether  they  succeed  is  another  ques 
tion;  but  we  shall  see."  Then  continuing,  Jubal 
goes  on  to  say,  "As  a  good  many  days  must  neces 
sarily  be  consumed  in  preparing  for  the  desperate 
undertaking,  for  you  must  know,  Josiah,  the  enemy 
are  almost,  if  not  quite  as  powerful  in  both  num 
bers  and  resources,  the  contest  must,  from  the  very 
nature  of  things,  be  something  out  of  the  common 
run.  Therefore,  I  suggest  we  take  a  journey,  say 
fifty  thousand  miles  inland,  for  the  purpose  of 
taking  a  survey  of  this  vast  extent  of  territory, 
noting  its  varied  industries,  likewise  immense  re 
sources." 

"Nothing  you  could  suggest  would  please  me 
better,"  I  return.  So  it  was  settled  and  agreement 
entered  into,  that  we  set  out  on  the  following 
morning,  to  which  end  passage  was  engaged  on 
board  the  fast  sailing  airship  "Argonaut,"  which, 
according  to  the  table,  would  set  sail  at  the  usual 
time  of  8.30  A.  M.  An  estimate,  supposing  tue 
regular  time  made,  i.e.,  ten  thousand  miles  per 


276     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

day,  the  round  trip  would  consume  some  ten  days, 
providing  there  were  no  long  stops  made.  So  it 
was  proposed,  outward  bound,  through  tickets  be 
purchased,  halting  at  only  two  or  three  of  the 
larger  towns,  and  should  sufficient  time  be  at  com 
mand,  before  sailing  of  the  government  fleet,  which, 
in  role  of  war  correspondent,  I  was  expected  to  ac 
company,  we  could  on  our  return  stop  at  as  many 
stations  as  we  chose. 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT.     277 


CHAPTEK  XLVIII. 

THE  JOURNEY. 

TEN  o'clock  of  the  following  morning  found  my 
faithful  friend,  along  with  one  Josiah  Barthole- 
mew,  on  board  the  great  airship  "Tarrantalus,"  in 
readiness  for  a  journey,  computed  at  ten  thousand 
miles,  and  now,  were  I  to  give  faithful  description 
of  the  aerial  monster,  it  would  be  to  say,  that  it 
was  all  of  one  hundred  and  fifty  feet  in  height,  by 
forty  in  breadth;  around  the  outer  edge  ran  a  low 
rail,  while  at  regular  intervals  secured  to  the  plat 
form  were  some  fifty  upholstered  seats,  already  oc 
cupied,  save  the  two  previously  reserved  for  Jubal 
and  myself. 

Swinging  high  overhead,  attached  to  the  plat 
form  by  stout  cables,  was  the  airship  proper,  said 
to  be  perfectly  safe  under  all  conditions,  though  it 
looked  too  ethereal  to  suit  my  fancy,  but  then  I 
recollected  that  in  spirit  life  things  are  somewhat 
different  than  when  in  the  natural  body. 

The  passengers,  of  all  ages  and  either  sex,  were 
mostly  clad  in  gorgeous  raiment,  and  still  more 
to  my  liking,  were  in  excessively  good  humor,  and 
withal,  gentle  mood,  for  this  mode  of  travel  was 
to  them  an  everyday  occurrence,  therefore  no  un 
easiness  felt  in  regard  to  its  safety. 

And  now  the  great  station  bell  peals  forth  the 


278     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

hour  of  starting,  the  cables  are  loosed  and  the  aerial 
ship  majestically  rises,  for  an  instant  halts  as  if 
to  enquire  the  way,  then,  accompanied  by  cheers 
and  shouts  of  a  great  multitude  of  spectators,  who 
never  seemed  to  tire  of  the  novelty,  proceeds  on  its 
way.  But  just  how  the  ship  was  propelled,  was,  to 
a  stranger  like  myself,  a  wondrous  mystery,  espe 
cially  in  the  absence  of  the  least  perceptible  current 
of  air.  The  mystery,  however,  soon  set  at  rest,  for 
casting  my  eyes,  as  one  might  say,  seaward,  I  was 
nearly  bereft  of  my  senses — on  supposition  I  had 
any  to  lose — after  all  the  marvellously  astonishing 
things  I  had  seen.  I  say,  in  view  of  all  this,  I 
saw  attached  to  the  bow  of  the  aeronautic  machine 
a  company  of  flying  forms,  numbering  two  score, 
twenty  on  either  side. 

"What !  in  the  name  of  all  the  saints — and 
devils,"  I  was  on  the  point  of  saying,  and  who 
should  blame  me — but  rather  I  changed  the  expres 
sion  to  one  of  simple  wonder,  then  rubbed  my  eyes 
and  looked  again,  with  this  result,  that  these  flying 
figures,  with  wide  extending  wings  and  hoarse 
cries,  bore  us  onward  with  the  speed  of  the  wind. 

"Aeronautic  motor,"  Jubal  quietly  replies  to  my 
look  of  astonishment. 

"And  most  singular  motor  it  is,"  I  return, 
and  why  not?  For  here  were  forty  winged 
creatures,  not  so  very  unlike  to  the  great  condor 
of  the  Alps,  only  many  times  larger;  indeed, 
I  judged  them  to  exceed  two  hundred  pounds 
each  in  weight,  while  as  to  the  wings,  well, 
to  say  the  least,  they  were  not  ope  whit  less  than 
forty  feet  from  tip  to  tip ;  so,  with  graceful  and 
seemingly  unconstrained  movement,  they  beat  the 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     279 

air,  hauling  the  immense  car  with  astonishing 
rapidity,  the  reins  in  hand  of  a  driver  seated  on 
a  little  platform  some  three  feet  above  the  deck. 

A  half  hour  of  this  swift  movement  and  the  walls 
of  a  city  appear  in  the  distance,  and  before  I  had 
time  to  make  enquiry,  Jubal,  anticipating  me,  said, 
"Yonder  town  is  called  Acropolis,  a  city  of  twenty- 
five  millions  of  people,  its  industries  mainly  manu 
facturing,"  a  fact  I  could  readily  understand,  for 
from  the  chimney  stacks  of  a  thousand  buildings 
rose  vast  clouds  of  smoke  and  flame,  suggestive,  as 
I  remarked,  "Of  the  infernal  regions." 

"On  supposition  there  were  such,"  Jubal  returns, 
though  he  continues,  "As  a  matter  of  fact  there  are 
none,  except  in  the  imagination." 

A  few  moments  later  and  we  were  hanging  over 
the  great  city.  At  signal,  the  airship  drops  gently 
to  the  ground,  a  considerable  gathering  of  spirit 
people  awaiting  our  arrival,  for  the  purpose  of 
going  aboard,  others  leaving,  having  reached  the  end 
of  the  journey,  and  just  here  let  me  say  that  my 
fate  was  to  a  large  extent  foreshadowed  by  this 
stopping,  for  had  no  one  come  on  board  I  would 
not  have  met  a  fate  from  which  I  have  never  com 
plained,  nor  sought  to  be  extricated,  being  perfectly 
content,  indeed.  Love  at  first  sight  was  never  more 
truthfully  exemplified  than  on  this  occasion,  nor 
was  matrimonial  venture  more  successful.  A  pecu- 
liarty  significant  fact  lay  in  this :  Wheresoever  I 
was  inclined  to  go,  or  my  steps  chanced  to  lead, 
every  eye  followed  my  movements,  for  it  seemed 
that  I  was  regarded  as  an  inhabitant  of  another 
world,  and  respected  accordingly.  But  in  no  in 
stance  was  that  regard  so  manifest  as  in  the  case 


280     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

of  a  maiden  who  came  on  board  at  the  last  station. 
It  is  not  my  intention  to  portray  the  many  ac 
complishments  of  one  who  was  destined  to  engross 
my  every  thought  and  attention,  for,  despite  my 
utmost  efforts  I  could  not  do  her  justice.  Hence, 
will  only  go  so  far  in  avowals  of  praise  as  to 
acknowledge  that  in  all  my  previous  experiences 
it  had  never  been  my  lot  to  meet  one  in  whom  the 
combined  graces  were  so  fully  displayed.  But 
then,  it  fs  a  well  known  fact  that  love  is  blind  to 
all  outside  influences. 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 
CHAPTER  XLIX. 

MY  FATE  SEALED. 

"JUBAL,  knowest  thou  yon  maiden — she  of  the 
flaxen  hair,  rosy  cheeks  and  a  bearing  a  queen 
might  envy?  Knowest  thou  her^  Jubal?"  I  re 
peat. 

"Aye !  that  I  do/'  he  returns.  "She  is  the 
daughter  of  an  eminent  astrologer,  who  lives  not 
far  from  the  center  of  the  town,  and  to  whom  I 
am  no  stranger.  Moreover,  when  it  pleaseth  me 
to  sojourn  hereabout,  I  am  a  welcome  guest,  the 
astrologer  a  generous  host,  a  highly  esteemed  citi 
zen — indeed,  he  ranks  second  to  none  of  the  mu 
nicipality — and  altogether  a  prosperous  man.  But, 
Josiah,  what  is  it  to  thee  ?  Methinks  thou  art  un 
commonly  interested  in  one  with  whom  you  have 
no  acquaintance;  but,  never  mind,  I  will  at  the 
first  opportunity  give  you  an  introduction/' 

"Thanks,  worthy  Jubal,  I  will  hold  myself  in 
readiness  to  accept  the  kindly  offer,"  I  respond. 

Our  brief  stay  finished,  signal  given,  and  the 
ponderous  machine  again  rises  to  the  occasion,  so 
to  speak,  the  winged  steeds  buckle  to  with  a  will, 
sailing  to  the  happy  songs  and  mirthful  greetings 
of  the  enthusiastic  travelers. 

As  the  voyage  continues,  new  beauties  spring  up 
on  every  hand,  wide  extended  plain  and  lofty  moun 
tain  range — their  summits  seeming  to  graze  the 
skies — outlined  on  the  horizon,  thus  conveying  the 


282     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

idea  there  are  other  paradisical  worlds  no  less  easy 
of  access  than  those  of  which  we  already  have 
knowledge.  Forests,  too,  of  illimitable  extent. 

The  monarch,  hoary  with  age,  vet  evidencing 
nothing  of  time's  ravages.  While  lakes  of  every 
form  and  size,  as  surveyed  from  the  great  height 
attained,  reflect  back  their  mirror-like  surface,  thus 
causing  a  thrill  of  transport  to  surge  through  every 
fibre  of  our  being. 

And  now  another  city  rises  to  view,  but  no  stop 
is  here  made,  although  Jubal  announces  its  name 
as  that  of  Athalone,  or  queen  city. 

As  our  brave  steeds  wing  their  way  overhead, 
other  aeronautic  ships  are  observed  putting  off, 
some  making  ready  for  departure.  The  waiting 
assemblage  giving  us  royal  greeting,  our  flight  fol 
lowed  by  applause.  "Something  out  of  the  com 
mon  run,"  suggests  Jubal,  "only  to  be  accounted 
for  on  supposition  that  your  fame,  Josiah,  has 
traveled  faster  and  farther  than  thou.  Yea," 
he  continues,  with  unbounded  enthusiasm,  "as, 
borne  on  wings  of  the  wind,  to  say  nothing  of  the 
wings  of  our  noble  steeds,  the  startling  news  has 
gone  forth,  'that  a  stranger  from  a  distant  planet 
has  arrived/ ''  Anon,  wide  rivers  are  crossed,  their 
swift  current  stemmed  by  vessels  of  merchandise 
sailing  to  some  foreign  port,  stretches  of  prairie, 
brought  to  the  highest  state  of  cultivation,  wearing 
the  look  of  one  vast  garden,  while  away  over  yonder, 
creeping  at  tortoise-like  pace,  yet  moving  at  the 
schedule  rate  of  two  hundred  miles  per  hour,  arf 
to  be  seen  railway  carriages,  the  long  sinuous  trains 
no  inapt  reminder  of  our  common  ancestors' 
tempter,  "The  Serpent !"  Thus  we  journey  for  the 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     283 

space  of  some  ten  hours,  the  shades  of  departing 
clay  warning  us  of  the  swift  approach  of  night, 
whereon  we  again  drop  to  earth,  descending  at  the 
city  Magenthum,  where  we  are  to  remain  for  the 
night.  So,  after  quite  a  search,  quarters  are  se 
cured  at  the  celebrated  Hotel  Elegante. 

Shortly  before  reaching  the  celebrated  hotel, 
Jubal,  according  to  promise,  gave  me  introduction 
to  my  fair  friend,  when  soon  after,  supper  was  an 
nounced,  and  I  had  the  exalted  honor  of  escorting 
her  to  the  table,  and  giving  her  a  seat  at  my  side. 

If,  in  the  lovely  Genevra,  I  had  previously  dis 
cerned  more  than  ordinary  beauties  of  person,  what 
shall  I  say  concerning  those  of  the  mind,  and 
above  all,  excellences  of  heart,  the  one  gratifying  to 
the  senses,  the  other  spiritual  in  my  enthusiasm, 
I  looked  on  the  fair  one  as  the  very  height  of  per 
fection. 

Supper  over,  I  proposed  a  stroll  about  town,  for 
asmuch  as  the  magnificent  city  was  one  glare  of 
light  from  center  to  circumference,  in  point  of 
fact  the  noonday  sun  could  hardly  excel  it  in  bril 
liancy,  so  it  will  be  readily  seen  the  most  minute 
objects  were  brought  to  view. 

As  we  wandered  hither  and  thither  about  the 
wonderful  town,  many  strange  sights  were  wit 
nessed.  Indeed,  I  could  not  recall  a  single  incident 
coming  under  my  observation  at  the  renowned 
British  capital,  "The  City  of  London,"  for  here 
were  open  squares  on  either  of  the  four  sides,  blocks 
of  uniform  height  and  style,  devoted  to  staple 
articles  of  commerce,  manufactured  from  the 
choicest  materials,  for  everybody  seemed  attired  in 
silks  and  satins.  Again,  a  broad  avenue  of  stately 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

palaces — for  there  were  few  others  to  be  seen,  for 
where  all  are  on  equal  footing,  all  share  and  share 
alike,  and  then,  too,  the  enormous  stature  of  the 
citizens — though  as  to  this  I  had  become  so  accus 
tomed  I  hardly  gave  it  a  second  thought.  But  I 
have  no  disposition  to  weary  anyone  with  an  ex 
tended  description  of  the  many  strange  scenes  en 
countered  during  my  brief  stay  at  the  city  of 
Magenthum,  and  will  only  farther  say  that  of 
them  all,  none  gave  me  a  sense  of  supreme  satisfac 
tion  as  did  the  lovely  maiden  at  my  side,  for  she 
was  not  only  a  pleasing  companion,  but  one  capable 
of  furnishing  much  useful  information,  because  she 
was  possessed  of  a  more  than  ordinarily  cultivated 
intellect,  which,  added  to  her  native  powers,  along 
with  knowledge  of  governmental  functions,  really, 
I  was  pretty  near  going  overboard  in  my  wondrous 
affection. 

Eight  o'clock  in  the  morning  saw  us  on  our  way 
to  the  aeronautic  station,  where,  on  arrival,  I  found 
Jubal  in  a  state  of  fearful  unrest,  manifested  by 
pacing  the  platform  with  hasty  strides — something 
unusual  for  one  of  his  staid  character — so,  on  ques 
tioning,  I  found  he  was  fearful  something  would 
happen  whereby  we  would  be  delayed  on  our  jour 
ney,  in  which  event  the  fleet  might  sail  without 
us. 

Resuming  our  customary  seats,  the  airship  ma 
jestically  rises,  the  winged  steeds,  refreshed,  apply 
their  best  energies  to  a  task  that  to  the  uniniti 
ated  must  seem  wearisome  indeed,  moving  away  to 
the  strains  of  a  band  of  music  furnished  by  the 
Authorities — as  Jubal  asserts — "in  honor  of  the 
stranger  guest." 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     285 


CHAPTER  L. 

THE  E^D  OF   THE   JOURNEY. 

FIFTY  thousand  miles  continuous  travel,  save 
halting  at  night  time,  and  the  end  of  the  long 
journey  is  reached,  our  destination  a  town  second 
in  importance  only  to  the  "Great  Central  City," 
from  whence  we  started  only  a  short  time  before. 
This  imperial  city  is  located  on  the  shore  of  a  sea 
that  washes  a  large  portion  of  the  immense  king 
dom,  wherein  are  located  the  towns  heretofore  men 
tioned. 

Here  we  remain  for  the  space  of  four  and  twenty 
hours,  employing  the  greater  part  of  the  time  in 
visiting  the  principal  objects  of  interest — though, 
from  the  vast  area,  but  a  tithe  of  these  objects 
could  we  survey. 

An  especially  noticeable  feature,  also  one  in 
which  I  was  more  than  ordinarily  interested,  was 
the  immensity  of  shipping  congregated  along  the 
wharves  and  about  the  harbor,  for  here  were  one 
hundred  ships  of  the  line,  twice  that  number  of 
transports,  all  in  active  preparation  for  the  war 
now  on,  waged  in  opposition  to  the  insurgents — re 
ported  nearly,  or  quite  equal  in  strength  to  the 
government  forces — whence,  it  was  my  firm  con 
viction,  that  to  be  in  the  thick  of  a  fray  of  this 
magnitude  was  to  expose  oneself  to  appalling  dan- 


286     THE  OLD  MOUXTAIX  HERMIT. 

gers.  Notwithstanding  the  danger,  to  be  in  employ 
of  a  government  of  such  immense  proportions  was 
certainly  an  honor  accorded  to  few,  thus,  while  the 
venture  could  not  be  otherwise  than  hazardous,  the 
outcome  would  be  equivalent  to  having  one's  name 
recorded  in  unmistakable  characters,  high  up  on 
the  roll  of  the  most  renowned  citizens  of  this,  the 
most  remarkable  of  all  commonwealths,  because  it 
was  a  spirit  people,  dwelling  in  the  spirit  world. 

After  a  brief  sojourn,  we  visit  the  great  railway 
station,  from  whence  depart  trains  leading  direct 
to  the  Capitol  City;  hence  it  would  consume,  say 
at  the  rate  of  four  thousand,  eight  hundred  miles 
per  day,  precisely  ten  and  one-half  days  to  make 
the  run  between  the  two  cities. 

On  reaching  the  station  we  found  a  train  just 
arrived  with  dispatches  from  headquarters  an 
nouncing  the  fact  that  the  government  fleets  were 
nearly  in  readiness,  and  would  sail  at  an  early 
date.  Consequently,  our  return  must  not  for  an 
instant  be  delayed,  if  we  wished  to  be  of  the  num 
ber  sailing,  and  also  inducements  of  a  high  order 
would  be  necessitated  in  order  to  induce  us  to  fore 
go  the  prospective  engagement.  I  suggested  to 
Jubal  the  desirability  of  returning  by  rail,  and  even 
then  I  feared  the  fleet  would  have  sailed.  And  as 
to  this  plan  no  objection  was  offered,  especially 
when  it  was  understood  the  aeronautic  ship  would 
be  detained  some  time  for  repairs.  I  ordered  a 
barouche  driven  in  furious  haste  to  Hotel  Elegante, 
and  take  on  board  Genevra,  returning  just  as  soon 
as  possible,  so  it  was  but  a  little  time  when  she 
reached  the  station,  wondering  what  had  happened 
to  create  such  a  disturbance.  However,  giving  her 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     287 

to  understand  'twas  nothing  serious,  we  went  aboard 
the  train  and  were  whirled  in  space  at  the  astonish 
ing  rate  of  two  hundred  miles  per  hour  a  part  of 
the  time,  an  additional  fifty,  in  deference  to  my 
wish  that  we  be  not  too  late  for  sailing  with  the 
fleet. 

Nevertheless,  had  we  been  detained  beyond  the 
schedule  rate  a  single  hour,  the  fleet  would  have 
been  under  way,  and  I  left  to  chew  my  finger  nails 
in  furious  rage.  As  it  was,  however,  the  dock  was 
reached  just  in  the  nick  of  time  to  go  aboard  the 
flag  ship  "Thunderbolt,"  in  rear  of  a  fleet  number 
ing  in  the  aggregate  some  five  hundred  ships  of 
the  line.  Meantime,  the  balance  of  the  fleet  hav 
ing  weighed  anchor,  were  now  to  be  seen  stretching 
away  to  the  verge  of  the  horizon,  immense  clouds 
of  canvas  spread  to  the  breeze,  wafting  them  to 
scenes  of  strife,  wounds,  bloodshed  and  death. 


288     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 


CHAPTER  LI. 

WAR  OF  THE  GIANTS. 

"FRIEND  Jubal,"  said  I,  "I  am  afraid  the  insur 
gents  will  stand  poor  chance,  when  the  immense 
fleet  of  government  ships  casts  anchor  in  their 
harbors,  demanding  at  the  mouth  of  cannon  'im 
mediate  surrender  or  take  the  consequences/  re 
plied  to  in  the  words,  'Come  and  take  us  if  you 
can/  which  will  undoubtedly  be  the  case,  but  when 
the  government  batteries  open  on  their  works  they 
may  change  the  tune,  only  too  eager  to  comply 
with  the  demands." 

"Ah,  Josiah,  did  you  but  know  the  strength  of 
the  opposition,  you  would  at  once  understand  that 
it  is  war  to  the  death — no  child's  play,  I  can  as 
sure  you — and  I  will  not  deny  there  are  grave 
doubts  in  the  minds  of  many  that  success  is  by 
no  means  certain ;  yet,  be  this  as  it  may,  the  strug 
gle  has  to  come,  for  such  a  long  continued  reign  of 
peace  breeds  discontent,  which  can  only  be  healed 
by  the  shedding  of  blood,  for  a  people  whether 
of  celestial  or  terrestrial  order,  are  prone  to 
settle  difficulties  by  arbitrament  of  arms,  so  that 
sooner  or  later  outbreaks  of  this  nature  must  be 
expected.  However,  I  am  inclined  in  the  belief 
the  ultimate  effect  will  be  to  settle  matters  quite 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     289 

effectively;  hence  a  return  to  peace  will  be  hailed 
with  joy  by  all  parties,  and  no  very  great  harm 
done,"  saying  which,  Jubal  claiming  he  had  im 
portant  duties  to  look  after,  retired,  and  I  fell  to 
reflecting.  Thus  I  here  behold  a  vast  expanse  of 
ocean,  from  shore  to  shore  fully  twenty-five  thou 
sand  miles,  and  when  this  distance  is  overcome,  a 
thoroughly  fortified,  skillfully  organized,  and  in 
every  way  well  equipped  foe  to  be  encountered. 

Would  success  follow  ?  Certainly  not  a  foregone 
conclusion,  whereon  I  was  led  to  question  whether 
it  were  possible  a  force  in  every  way  equal  to 
that  sailing  under  the  national  colors,  led  by  com 
petent  officers,  could  cope  in  opposition  to  a  gov 
ernment  founded  on  equality  and  justice,  whose 
every  act  has  been  the  interest  of  the  masses,  regard 
less  of  rank  or  social  distinction,  and  as  far  as  I 
could  learn,  no  complaints  had  ever  come  to  the 
heads  of  departments,  no  act  of  injustice  urged  in 
excuse,  from  which,  I  inferred,  the  war  was  set  on 
foot  more  as  a  relief  to  the  pentup  energies  of  the 
masses,  in  order  to  give  vent  to  the  surplus  activi 
ties  so  common  among  those  who  are  not  obliged 
to  work  for  their  daily  bread,  rather  than  as  redress 
for  fancied  grievances. 

The  flag  ship,  carrying  the  commander  of  the 
combined  naval  and  land  forces,  was  a  vessel  of 
enormous  proportions,  and  if  her  power  was  equal 
to  her  size,  few  ships  of  this  or  any  other  fleet 
could  stand  against  her;  not  only  this,  but  her 
armament  was  something  terrific,  numbering  three 
hundred  guns,  each  sixty  feet  in  length,  carrying 
shot  of  five  hundred  pounds  weight,  the  upper  deck 
devoted  to  cabin,  officers'  quarters  and  the  like, 


290     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

while  the  seamen  had  berths  below;  thus  the  ship 
was  competent  to  transporting  three  thousand  men- 
at-arms,  while  the  sailors  numbered  about  one 
thousand. 

The  propelling  power  of  this  ship  consisted  of 
four  screws  at  the  stern,  and  the  same  number  at 
the  bow,  all  acting  in  concert;  besides,  the  vessel 
was  rigged  with  sails,  the  masts  two  hundred  feet 
in  height,  so  the  combined  forces  of  screw  and  sail 
must  necessarily  contribute  to  wondrous  speed  and 
terrific  power.  And  as  this  was  self-generating — 
as  heretofore  explained — there  seemed  nothing 
wanting  to  make  this  vessel  invulnerable  to  any 
thing  the  enemy  might  be  able  to  send  against  it. 

In  addition  to  the  hundreds  of  ships  of  the 
line,  there  were  transports  adequate  to  the  con 
veyance  of  several  hundred  thousand  marines. 

Meganthum,  as  previously  noted,  the  second  city 
in  size  and  importance  to  the  capital  city,  likewise 
the  objective  point  of  the  late  aerial  voyage,  had 
raised  and  dispatched  a  fleet  but  little  less  in  size 
and  equipment  to  the  one  I  was  to  accompany, 
while  a  dozen  smaller  seaports  had  contributed 
each  their  quota,  thereby  swelling  the  national 
army  to  nearly  four  millions  of  thoroughly 
equipped  and  fairly  disciplined  soldiery,  and  what 
a  magnificent  body  of  troops  !  Not  one  of  the  whole 
array  less  than  from  twelve  to  fifteen  feet  in  height, 
some  going  up  to  twenty,  all  clad  in  uniforms  that 
the  British  army  in  all  its  glory  could  not  equal. 
The  corps  commanders,  field  marshals,  division  and 
brigadier  generals,  even  down  to  colonels,  were 
accoutred  with  a  magnificence  no  army  on  earth 
below  or  heaven  above  could  excel,  so  it  will  be 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     291 

readily  seen  this  was  no  holiday  excursion.  As  all 
well  knew,  rather,  hard  fighting  the  rule. 

Every  man  expected  to  do  his  duty,  yet  there 
was  not  one  among  the  whole  number  on  whose 
face  could  be  detected  a  single  grain  of  fear.  On 
the  contrary,  each  and  all  seemed  to  be  in  readiness 
for  the  fray.  There  was,  however,  a  degree  of 
solemnity  observable  for  which  I  could  hardly  ac 
count,  until  informed  that  it  was  mainly  owing 
to  the  fact  that  one  section  was  arrayed  against  the 
other,  very  different  from  a  war  with  a  foreign 
•foe — the  first  and  only  time  in  the  history,  extend 
ing  back  to  the  very  beginning  of  time,  and  that 
so  remote,  that  figures  were  not  adequate  to  make 
calculation,  and  it  did  seem  a  monstrous  wrong 
that  after  so  many  centuries  of  peace  the  nation 
should  be  awakened  to  a  sense  of  insecurity,  and 
that  from  its  own  people. 

Lying  midway  a  vast  unbroken  sea  is  an  im 
mense  tract  of  land  laid  down  on  paradisical  charts 
as  "Ordnance  Island,"  its  peculiar  name  derived 
from  being  the  principal  seaport  where  are  manu 
factured  munitions  of  war. 

Here  were  immense  buildings  for  the  construc 
tion  of  heavy  guns,  others  for  gun  carriages,  cais 
sons,  baggage  wagons  and  the  various  industries 
inseparable  to  the  carrying  on  of  a  nation's  warlike 
matters,  and  so  we  here  find  a  large  and  impor 
tant  town  springing  up,  supported  by  those  taking 
part  in  these  government  affairs,  the  population 
estimated  at  this  particular  time  at  about  one  mil 
lion  souls. 

This  thrifty  and  important  town,  known  as  Mid 
way  City,  was  now  a  scene  of  uncommon  activity, 


292     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT. 

and  from  being  the  most  desirable  harbor  of  the 
entire  coast,  the  government  fleets  were  ordered 
to  rendezvous  at  this  point,  and  as  they  had  nearly 
all  preceded  us,  they  were  lying  at  anchor  awaiting 
appearance  of  the  flag  ship,  on  whose  deck  was 
stationed  the  Lord  High  Admiral  of  the  entire 
naval  forces.  And  what  a  grand,  exciting  scene 
was  brought  to  view  as  the  "Admiratic"  forged  to 
the  front,  banners  and  bunting  of  every  conceiv 
able  shape  and  size  waved  from  every  masthead 
and  spar,  and  now  the  order  signalled  to  cast  an 
chor,  the  great  guns  belched  forth  welcome  to  the 
admiral,  while  cheers  and  hurrahs  went  up  from 
the  throats  of  thousands  of  the  enthusiastic  sol 
diery,  while  transports  by  the  thousands,  laden 
with  military  stores  and  field  artillery,  decks 
crowded  with  marines,  horses  of  magnificent  build 
richly  caparisoned,  were  there  by  the  hundreds  of 
thousands. 

The  batteries  pealed  forth  in  tones  of  defiance 
to  the  foe,  and  adieu  to  friends  at  home,  the  loud 
sounding  notes  scarcely  dying  away  when  they  were 
echoed  by  some  distant  battery,  in  exchange  of  com 
pliment,  the  music  of  a  hundred  organizations,  all 
lending  additional  charm  to  scenes  where  the  heart 
is  made  glad.  At  the  same  time  deep-seated  melan 
choly  pervades  the  entire  assemblage,  for  many 
there  were,  who,  despite  the  fascinations  of  war 
fare,  were  in  doubt  as  to  whether  they  would  ever 
return  to  again  look  on  the  magnificent  features 
of  the  capital  city,  for  each  knew  that  death  would 
ere  long  stare  him  in  the  face. 

Here  were  promulgated  the  orders  of  engage 
ment,  I,  Josiah  Bartholemew,  commissioned 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     293 

"Charge-de-Affairs"  of  the  reportorial  force,  with, 
orders  to  communicate  with  the  chief  of  staff  only. 

The  several  divisions  of  the  fleet  now  take  their 
respective  stations,  the  line  of  battle  extending  in 
either  direction  farther  than  the  eye  could  reach, 
were  signalled  to  start  at  a  moment's  notice.  The 
flag  ship  assigned  to  the  center  of  the  line.  And 
now  the  order  is  given  to  hoist  sail,  standing  out  to 
sea,  so  it  is  but  a  little  time  when  every  sail  is 
spread  to  the  breeze,  and  the  fleet  is  slowly  but 
surely  wafted  onward  to  scenes  where  angels  might 
weep  and  devils  rejoice. 

Thus  the  fleet  advances,  a  thunderous  report 
now  and  then  signalling  some  lagging  division  to- 
hurry  up  in  line,  until  at  length  we  arrive  within 
some  fifty  leagues  of  the  hostile  shores.  Now  a 
halt  is  signalled,  the  fleet  deploy  in  battle  array, 
then  move  up  twenty-five  miles  distant  from  the 
enemy's  works.  The  right  of  the  column  cast 
anchor,  preparing  for  bombardment  of  the  exten 
sive  fortifications,  which,  though  so  far  away,  are 
within  easy  range,  and,  consequent  on  the  enlarged 
rotundity  of  the  immense  globe,  are  plainly  to  be 
seen.  Meanwhile  the  center  and  left  move  to  either 
side,  so  that  while  one  division  is  engaged  at  the 
front,  the  others  execute  flank  movements,  thus 
landing  troops  both  above  and  below,  who  at  the 
last  unite  at  the  enemy's  rear,  and  as  the  fortified 
positions  extend  in  an  unbroken  line  for  at  least 
fifty  miles,  it  must  necessarily  consume  consider 
able  time  in  arriving  at  the  respective  points  where 
the  land  forces  are  to  disembark ;  therefore,  it  will 
be  readily  seen  there  would  be  ample  time  for  the 
attacking  force  at  the  front  to  make  headway — if 


294     THE  OLD  MOUXTAIX  HERMIT. 

it  could  be  done  at  all — before  those  in  the  rear 
could  be  brought  into  action.  Moreover,  it  was  a 
matter  of  conjecture  as  to  whether,  with  the  forces 
co-operating,  the  attack  would  eventuate  in  success, 
particularly  when  taking  into  account  the  numeri 
cal  strength  of  the  revolutionists  being  nearly  equal 
to  that  of  the  nationals.  However,  by  the  ar 
ranged  flank  movement,  it  was  believed  they  could 
be  taken  unawares,  but  here  was  where  a  mistake 
was  made.  The  alertness,  decision,  and,  above  all, 
firmness  of  the  opposition  was  soon  made  mani 
fest  by  the  concentrated  fire  on  the  center  of  the 
fleet,  a  number  of  heavy  balls  passing  directly  over 
the  flag  ship  and  vessels  along  the  front  rank,  but 
causing  sad  havoc  to  those  in  the  rear,  for  a  full 
score  were  almost  annihilated. 

Upon  witnessing  this  manifestation  of  the 
enemy's  fearful  power,  the  -face  of  the  admiral 
seemed  to  wear  a  troubled  look,  and  well  might 
such  be  the  case,  for  if  the  guns  of  a  single  battery 
were  competent  to  inflict  such  an  amount  of  dam 
age,  what  would  be  the  effect  of  a  score  of  batteries  ? 
Certainly,  a  problem  of  easy  solution.  However, 
in  no  wise  undaunted,  the  admiral  directs  return 
fire  from  the  entire  front  line  of  battle,  answered 
by  a  thousand  guns.  When  the  dense  volumes  of 
smoke  having  cleared  away,  revealed  a  sight,  caus 
ing  every  marine  and  cannonier  to  send  up  a  shout 
of  joy,  for  the  ponderous  walls  of  the  distant  for 
tifications  were  to  be  seen  falling,  in  many  places 
not  one  stone  left  upon  another. 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     295 


CHAPTER  LIL 

IN  CLOSE  QUARTERS. 

THE  battle  well  on  was  raging  with  the  utmost 
intensity,  the  result,  however,  as  yet  hard  to  deter 
mine,  heavy  masses  of  dark,  threatening  clouds  and 
stifling  smoke  rising  as  a  wall  in  our  front,  so  that 
it  was  a  sheer  matter  of  impossibility  to  estimate 
the  damage  inflicted  on  the  enemy's  works.  The 
fearful  din  at  the  rear  betokened  a  desperate 
struggle,  hence  it  would  seem  the  land  contingent 
were  meeting  an  unexpected  opposition,  so  rein 
forcements  were  called  for,  whereupon  a  detach 
ment  from  the  main  body,  computed  at  a  half  mil 
lion  of  the  flower  of  the  army,  were  landed  and  im 
mediately  pushed  to  the  front. 

Forging  ahead  with  terrific  speed,  impelled  by 
scores  of  aeronautic  steeds,  were  to  be  seen  long 
columns  of  flying  machines  in  active  preparation 
to  hurl  on  the  enemy's  heads  thunderbolts,  in  the 
form  of  Jieavily  loaded  shells  which  must,  from  the 
very  nature  of  the  deadly  missiles,  cause  a  retreat 
unless  some  counteracting  influence  could  be 
brought  to  bear,  which,  under  the  circumstances, 
was  not  possible ;  so  it  was  not  long  before  the  shells 
began  dropping,  followed  by  results  of  a  terribly 
sanguinary  nature. 

"Twas  thus  the  battle  raged  with  scarcely  a  mo- 


296     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

merit's  cessation,  attended  by  fearful  loss  of  life, 
for  the  space  of  eight  and  forty  hours.  At  the  end 
of  which  time  the  enemy,  finding  all  lost,  with 
drew  to  their  former  anchorage. 

It  was  now  quite  evident  that  the  enemy's  af 
fairs  were  in  a  condition  bordering  on  desperation. 

The  conflict  resulting  in  the  complete  triumph 
of  the  national  cause. 

Well,  to  make  a  long  story  short,  as  my  old 
friend,  Captain  Jeremy  Lighthouse  would  say,  con 
sequent  on  the  skill  displayed  in  performance  of 
my  reportorial  duties,  I,  Josiah  Bartholemew,  was 
likewise  raised  to  lofty  position,  that  is,  charged 
with  the  duties  pertaining  to  "Xews  Gatherer  in 
Chief,"  my  field  of  operations  the  entire  hemi 
sphere. 

The  insurgent  element  crushed,  the  prospect  of 
again  rallying  for  the  prosecution  of  the  cause 
was  slim  indeed,  so  by  proclamation  of  the  gov 
ernment  it  was  understood  that,  should  secession 
again  be  attempted,  the  authors  and  abettors  there 
of  would  suffer  the  full  penalty  of  the  law. 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     297 


CHAPTER  LIIL 

A  VISIT  TO  GENEVRA. 

GOVERNMENTAL  affairs  adjusted,  and  nothing  in 
particular  demanding  attention,  I  petitioned  for, 
and  was  granted  leave  of  absence,  for  I  was  to  pay 
my  Genevra  a  visit  at  her  own  home  in  the  populous 
city  of  Acropolis,  but  not  knowing  the  sort  of  re 
ception  I  would  be  likely  to  meet — especially  from 
the  paternal  side  of  the  house — who,  consequent 
on  his  exalted  position,  might  not  be  inclined  to 
favor  my  suit.  The  maternal  opinion  I  cared  less 
about,  on  the  principle  that,  as  were  the  daughter's 
affections  bent,  so  would  the  mother's  be  inclined. 
Yet,  taking  it  all  in  all,  my  mind  was  assailed  with 
unpleasant  forebodings,  until  the  adage  was  brought 
to  mind,  "Faint  heart  never  won  fair  lady."  I  re 
solved  to  set  out  with  the  least  possible  delay. 
Meanwhile  engaged  in  preparing  for  the  ten  thou 
sand  mile  journey,  I  take  occasion  to  call  on  Jubal, 
who  informed  me  that,  "commissioned  as  bearer 
of  dispatches  to  a  number  of  outlying  planets, 
among  which  is  that  of  earth,  I  hereby  invite  you 
to  accompany  me." 

Informing  worthy  Jubal  of  the  proposed  visit  he 
gave  assent  with  the  proviso  that  I  take  sufficient 
time  to  accomplish  the  desired  object,  as  nothing 
detrimental  was  likely  to  ensue  from  limited  post- 


298     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HEEMIT. 

ponement  of  the  prospective  voyage  to  other  planets, 
so  assuring  my  kind  hearted  mentor  that  under  no 
ordinary  circumstances  would  my  stay  be  unduly 
prolonged,  I  went  on  board  the  aeronautic  ship 
"Whirlwind,"  and  before  I  had  time  to  make  ac 
quaintance  with  any  of  the  passengers  I  was  set 
down  at  Acropolis  station,  where  on  solicitation, 
the  master  directed  me  to  the  abode  of  the  noted 
astrologer,  Nicophorous,  the  paternal  ancestor  of 
my  beloved  Genevra. 

The  home  of  Xicophorous  I  found  to  be  palatial 
in  the  extreme,  likewise  situated  on  an  eminence 
overlooking  the  city. 

Going  aboard  a  rapid  transit  car  I  was  in  a  few 
moments  landed  at  the  entrance  gate  of  a  long 
stretch  of  parkway  grounds  in  winding  walks  laid 
on  variegated  marbles,  bordered  with  lofty  trees, 
while  from  innumerable  fountains  flowed  waters 
sparkling  in  the  broad  sunlight,  in  fact,  everything 
about  seemed  on  a  scale  of  magnificence  heretofore 
unknown,  hence  I  was  on  the  point  of  enquiring  if 
there  were  no  streets,  rather  paths  golden  paved, 
for  such  was  the  description  I  had  heard  given  of 
Paradise.  But  what  struck  me  more  forcibly  than 
all  else  was  a  chariot  drawn  with  three  horses 
abreast,  reins  in  the  hand  of  a  charioteer  of  noble 
bearing,  the  entire  outfit  of  a  grandeur  unapproach 
able.  While  reclining  under  a  crimson  canopy, 
was  a  maiden  whom  I  at  once  recognized  as  the 
one  for  whom  I  had  taken  the  long  journey — Ge 
nevra. 

Swiftly  approaching,  the  chariot  comes  to  a 
standstill.  The  lovely  occupant  stretches  out  a 
hand  accompanied  with  tli°.  exclamation,  "Good 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     299 

friend,  if  such,  on  short  acquaintance  I  am  per 
mitted  to  address  thee,  it  is  certainly  with  much 
joy  I  am  constrained  to  thus  greet  thee,  for  I  much 
feared  I  might  never  again  behold  thy  pleasant  face, 
but  thanks  to  the  good  angels  who  never  desert  a 
friend  in  need,  thou  hast  it  seems  escaped  the  dan 
gers  incident  to  thy  hazardous  calling.  Moreover, 
the  fame  acquired  in  fulfillment  of  thy  mission  hath 
for  a  verity  traveled  faster  than  thou,  hence,  fore 
warned  of  thy  coming  I  have  made  preparations  as 
you  see." 

Kindly, — I  might  say  condescending!}' — a  seat 
was  proffered  at  her  side.  The  charioteer  gave  the 
rein  to  his  steeds  and  away  we  went.  The  palace 
gates  opening  to  receive  us  before  I  was  hardly 
aware  we  had  started,  disclosing  a  magnificent  hall 
way  where  we  were  accosted  by  a  gorgeously  at 
tired  footman  and  waited  on  to  an  apartment  desig 
nated  as  the  "Audience  Chamber,"  Genevra  soon 
after  retiring  to  her  own  room. 

A  few  moments  devoted  to  examining  the  vari 
ous  articles  scattered  promiscuously  about,  and  the 
noted  astrologer  accompanied  by  his  wife  appeared, 
escorted  by  the  footman,  who  likewise  performed  the 
ceremony  of  introduction. 

Approaching,  Xicophorous  gave  me  a  hand,  say 
ing:  "Stranger  from  another  world, — as  I  have 
been  credibly  informed — thy  name  and  fame  hath 
so  far  outstripped  thy  journeyings  as  to  become 
known  through  the  length  and  breadth  of  the  land, 
therefore  accept  greetings  from  one  who  delights  to 
honor  talent,  come  from  whatsoever  source  it  may," 
then  in  hesitating  mood,  "permit  me,  good  sir,  to 
give  thee  introduction  to  one  who  deserves  an  equal 


300     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

share  of  honor  with  thyself. — Mrs.  Nicophorous." 

Upon  taking  the  hand  of  this  remarkable  gen 
tleman,  I  could  entertain  no  doubt  as  to  Genevra's 
parentage,  for  in  bearing  and  general  appearance 
one  was  a  counterpart  of  the  other,  the  expressive 
features  of  the  father  descending  to  the  daughter. 

As  in  'any  event  my  stay  must  be  limited,  I  in 
form  the  worthy  pair  relative  to  the  contemplated 
journey  to  other  planets,  whereupon  both  break  out 
in  rapturous  applause,  mingled  with  congratula 
tions  in  that  I  was  favored  above  all  spirits  in  be 
ing  permitted  to  revisit  olden  time  scenes,  and 
above  all  renew  acquaintances  with  olden  time 
friends. 

I  have  no  desire  to  trespass  on  the  time  or  weary 
the  reader's  patience  by  relating  the  varied  scenes 
and  incidents  connected  with  my  stay,  and  will 
only  add  that  my  visit  was  delightful  beyond 
anticipation,  terminating  altogether  beyond  my 
most  sanguine  hopes,  for  before  taking  leave  I  was, 
with  the  consent  of  her  parents,  engaged  in  mar 
riage  to  the  lovely  Genevra,  the  consummation  of 
the  auspicious  event  to  remain  in  embryo  until  my 
return  from  "foreign  parts."  So  bidding  my  kind 
friends  "adieu,"  I  returned  home  by  rail. 

Upon  reaching  the  capital  city  I  found  Jubal 
actively  at  work  preparing  for  the  journey,  esti 
mated  at  more  than  ten  thousand  million  of  miles, 
my  main  source  of  regret  lying  in  the  fact  that  I 
was  compelled  to  take  leave  of  my  affianced,  while 
her  principal  cause  of  anxiety  arose  from  the  notion 
that  I  might  peradventure  come  across  my  former 
wife — Hab-a-sha — who  will  be  remembered  as 
connected  with  my  kingly  exploits,  but,  on,  as- 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     301 

surance  that  this  was  certainly  among  the  list  of 
impossibilities  because  all  of  five  centuries  had 
elapsed  since  my  demise  in  rear  of  Pickett's  columns 
on  the  noteworthy  field  of  Gettysburg,  it  could 
hardly  be  expected  that  her  spirit  would  still  be 
hovering  about  earth,  or  in  any  way  connected  with 
earthly  affairs.  In  this,  however,  I  was — as  the 
sequel  will  show, — fearfully  deceived. 

Having  received  the  aforesaid  dispatches,  thus 
all  in  readiness  for  the  prospectively  long  journey, 
Jubal  and  I  bade  leave  of  our  spirit  friends, — from 
many  receiving  congratulations,  others  venting  their 
spite,  because  we  should  be  so  favored,  in  contradis 
tinction  to  themselves — then  set  out  with  bright 
anticipations  as  to  what  the  future  might  have  in 
store.  Thus  planet  after  planet  was  visited,  our 
stay  at  each  of  limited  duration,  but  not  one  was 
called  upon  that  we  were  not  received  with  due 
consideration,  as  bearing  messages  from  the  great 
central  orb  to  those  of  lesser  degree,  and  now  came 
the  welcome  news — as  reported  by  Jubal  in  the 
words, — "Josiah,  we  are  rapidly  nearing  earth's 
solar  system,  for  look  you,  yonder  is  the  sun,  though 
but  a  mere  speck  in  the  heavens."  We  were,  however, 
traveling  with  such  inconceivable  rapidity  that  be 
fore  we  were  really  conscious  of  the  fact  an  immense 
globe  of  liquid  fires,  glowing  in  their  wondrous  in 
tensity,  rose  in  our  front,  and  in  such  close  prox 
imity  that  we  were  nearly  overcome  with  the  furious 
heat.  Anon,  the  moon  in  majestic  splendor  rises, 
her  soft  yellow  rays  illuminating  the  heavens, 
lighting  up  mountain  caverns  and  darksome  re 
cesses,  while  seas,  oceans  and  vast  plains  of  earth's 
dominions  were  plainly  visible,  so  that  it  was  but 


302     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

a  little  while  after,  that  landing  was  made,  and  we 
once  more  standing  on  familiar  ground,  but  oh, 
how  changed,  what  wondrous  alterations  five  cen 
turies  have  wrought !  London-town,  the  oncewhile 
world's  emporium,  center  of  a  world's  commerce, 
where  converged  all  greatest  and  best  that  human 
skill  was  competent  to  produce,  now — as  once  be 
fore  prefigured  by  Jubal — a  desert  waste,  the 
British  isles  given  up  to  the  "beast  that  prowls  by 
night,  and  the  pestilence  that  walketh  by  noonday." 
The  temples  where  flourished  the  arts  and  sciences, 
lofty  structures,  consecrated  to  worship,  ware 
houses,  overflowing  with  a  world's  products,  rail 
ways  spanning  continents,  houses  for  the  poor  and 
destitute,  all  these,  aye,  and  more,  things  of  a  long 
forgotten  past,  while  rivers  on  whose  bosom  floated 
a  world's  marine,  ships  destined  to  every  known 
port,  all  now  among  the  things  that  were,  but  are 
not. 

Crossing  the  vast  expanse  of  ocean,  my  surprise 
was  even  greater,  for  I  found  the  western  hemi 
sphere  filled  with  towns  and  cities,  many  having 
overtaken  and  passed  even  the  once  great  city  of 
London. 

I  had  hardly  anticipated  meeting  my  olden  time 
war  associates — or  for  that  matter,  any  one  of  them, 
the  passage  of  time  presumably  having  raised  them 
to  loftier  planes  in  the  spirit  world — but  in  this  I 
was  mistaken,  inasmuch  as  I  found  many  sj'll 
earthbound,  thus  evidently  not  in  the  line  of  pro 
gression.  And  now,  lest  I  be  accused  of  uttering 
falsehoods,  I  will  mention  one  circumstance  that  I 
feared  might  have  a  possible  bearing  on  my  future 
spirit  life,  it  coming  about  in  this  way,  to  wit: 


THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT.     303 

At  a  reception  given  in  my  honor,  held  at  the 
residence  of  a  member  of  a  certain  spiritualist  as 
sociation,  at  this  time  the  religion  of  earth,  the 
fact  was,  through  a  medium,  having  communica 
tion  with  the  world  of  spirits,  disclosed  that  the 
fears  of  Genevra  were  not  without  foundation,  for 
here  I  learned  that  my  former  earth  wife — 
Chief  Tanawarga's  daughter — was  still  a  dweller 
of  the  mundane  sphere,  and  what  was  more,  would, 
if  I  so  wished,  appear  to  me  in  spirit  guise,  thus 
renewing  acquaintance  of  five  long  centuries  agone. 

Now,  under  ordinary  conditions,  nothing  would 
have  pleased  me  better  than  to  meet  one  whom  it 
had  been  my  good  fortune  to  rescue  from  the  toils 
of  her  enemies,  and  to  whom  I  was  at  the  time  de 
votedly  attached,  but  now,  that  the  fears  of  my 
anticipated  bride,  Genevra,  were  in  fair  way  of 
realization,  I  was  certainly  in  an  unpleasant  posi 
tion,  for  to  refuse  audience  with  one  who  on  all 
occasions  had  striven  for  the  promotion  of  my 
happiness,  and  from  whom  in  tears  I  had  parted 
five  hundred  years  since,  was  a  thought  not  easily 
borne,  yet,  in  whose  interests  was  it  my  duty  to 
serve?  She,  from  whom  by  the  most  imperative 
of  nature's  laws  I  had  for  so  long  been  divorced 
or  the  one  to  whom  I  had  so  lately  sworn  fealty? 
Clearly  the  latter.  Anyway,  'twas  thus  I  argued, 
but  that  supreme  selfishness  was  at  the  bottom  I 
could  not  deny. 

I  regretfully  pass  by  description  of  our  return  to 
celestial  regions,  with  the  simple  remark,  "That  on 
arrival  we  were  received  as  was  evidently  befitting 
the  king's  messengers  to  other  worlds,  Jubal  the 
recipient  of  numerous  testimonials,  evidencing  the 


304     THE  OLD  MOUNTAIN  HERMIT. 

faithful  performance  of  his  arduous  duties,  accom 
panied  by  accurate  report  furnished  to  leading 
journals  of  the  capital  city,  one,  'The  Daily  News,' 
testifying  to  the  fact  that  Josiah  Bartholemew  was 
the  one  reporter  who  could  be  relied  upon  for  ac 
curacy  of  statement  combined  with  surprising  f  acili- 
ity  for  gathering  the  most  stirring  news  afloat, 
hence  it  would  naturally  stand  the  government  offi 
cials  in  hand  to  make  satisfactory  arrangements 
whereby  the  talented  reporter's  services  can  be  se 
cured,  else  offers  may  be  tendered  in  other  quar 
ters  equally  conducive  to  his  own  interests,  if  less 
satisfactory  to  the  government."  "For  what,"  urges 
one  of  the  leading  journals,  "is  a  hundred  dollars 
more  or  less  when  important  interests  are  to  be  sub 
served?  Nothing,  we  say;  therefore  we  urge  the 
authorities  to  make  haste  in  securing  the  services 
of  our  friend  and  noteworthy  correspondent,  lately 
returned  from  a  journey  to  outlying  planets — 
Josiah  Bartholemew." 


THE    END. 


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